Duggar In-Laws Speak Out After Arrest, Offer Support for Victim

The Caldwell family breaks their silence, expressing heartbreak and standing by the young victim.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 3:11am

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An abstract close-up photograph of shattered glass and glittering shards, captured in dramatic high-contrast studio lighting to convey a sense of emotional fragmentation and loss of innocence.The Caldwell family's public statement on the Joseph Duggar situation reflects the heartbreak and complexity of supporting both the victim and their own loved ones.Panama City Beach Today

Nearly a month after news broke of Joseph Duggar's arrest, his in-laws, the Caldwell family, have released an emotional public statement. In the statement, Paul and Christina Caldwell say they are 'both troubled and heartbroken' over the alleged actions of their son-in-law, and express support for the young victim who came forward. The Caldwells also share their love and concern for their daughter Kendra and their grandchildren, who they say have been traumatized by the incident. While asking for privacy, the family has also launched a GoFundMe to secure new housing after being asked to leave the home they shared with the Duggars.

Why it matters

The Duggar family and their in-laws have long been public figures through their reality TV shows, making this a high-profile case that has drawn significant attention. The Caldwells' statement provides a rare glimpse into how the extended family is coping with the fallout and underscores the complex emotions involved, from supporting the victim to standing by their own daughter and grandchildren.

The details

Joseph Duggar, a former TLC reality star, was arrested on March 18, 2026, in connection with alleged incidents from 2020 in Panama City Beach, Florida. His wife, Kendra Duggar, was also reportedly charged in a separate matter in Arkansas later that month. In their statement, the Caldwells say they are 'devastated for the young girl, a child who was courageous in every way to share her truth' and that they 'stand by her, both in support and prayer, and forever will.' They also express love and support for their daughter Kendra and their grandchildren, who they say have been 'traumatized' by the incident.

  • Joseph Duggar was arrested on March 18, 2026.
  • Kendra Duggar was charged in a separate matter in Arkansas later in March 2026.
  • The Caldwells released their public statement on April 15, 2026.

The players

Joseph Duggar

A former TLC reality star who was arrested in March 2026 in connection with alleged incidents from 2020 in Panama City Beach, Florida.

Kendra Duggar

Joseph Duggar's wife, who was also reportedly charged in a separate matter in Arkansas in March 2026.

Paul and Christina Caldwell

Kendra Duggar's parents, who released an emotional public statement on behalf of the Caldwell family in April 2026.

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What they’re saying

“Our family is both troubled and heartbroken over the alleged actions committed by our son-in-law.”

— Paul and Christina Caldwell, Kendra Duggar's parents

“We are devastated for the young girl, a child who was courageous in every way to share her truth. We stand by her, both in support and prayer, and forever will.”

— Paul and Christina Caldwell, Kendra Duggar's parents

“Our love for this child remains at the forefront of our family's priorities and minds. We are proud of her for being strong enough to share her story while also retaining her own identity and joy.”

— Paul and Christina Caldwell, Kendra Duggar's parents

What’s next

The Caldwell family has launched a GoFundMe to secure new housing after being asked to leave the home they shared with the Duggars. As the Joseph Duggar situation continues to unfold, the family has said they have no further comment and are requesting privacy.

The takeaway

The Caldwell family's emotional statement reflects the complex dynamics at play, as they grapple with supporting the victim while also standing by their own daughter and grandchildren. Their focus on faith, family, and the outpouring of support from others underscores the human toll of high-profile cases like this.