It is now apparent that Anna Duggar knew all along about her husband’s past molestation charges. In a statement sent to People , the 19 Kids and Counting star admitted that she knew about Josh Duggar’s crimes even before they were married.
“I can imagine the shock many of you are going through reading this. I remember feeling that same shock.” Anna stated in the release.
The controversy ignited when In Touch magazine released a 2006 police report that contained information about Duggar molesting five girls when he was a teenager. Josh posted a message on the family’s Facebook page following the allegations. “Twelve years ago, as a young teenager I acted inexcusably for which I am extremely sorry and deeply regret,” he wrote.
Josh is the oldest son of Jim and Michelle Duggar and has already stepped down from his job at the Family Research Council in Washington. In her official statement, Anna Duggar went on to clarify her knowledge of the situation.
“When my family and I first visited the Duggar Home, Josh shared his past teenage mistakes. I was surprised at his openness and humility and at the same time didn’t know why he was sharing it. For Josh he wanted not just me but my parents to know who he really was — even every difficult past mistakes.”
Although the police are now well aware of the incident, they were unable to press charges because the statute of limitations had expired. However, Josh stated that he did undergo therapy for his actions.
“We spoke with the authorities where I confessed my wrongdoing and my parents arranged for me and those affected by my actions to receive counseling. I understood that if I continued down this wrong road that I would end up ruining my life. I sought forgiveness from those I had wronged and asked Christ to forgive me and come into my life. I would do anything to go back to those teen years and take different actions. In my life today, I am so very thankful for God’s grace, mercy and redemption.”
Despite all the backlash from the reports, Anna is still unwavering in her support of her husband. “I want to say thank you to those who took time over a decade ago to help Josh in a time of crisis,” she explained. “Your investment changed his life from going down the wrong path to doing what is right. If it weren’t for your help I would not be here as his wife.”
Josh and Anna Duggar have been together for a little over 6 years in a marriage that has produced three children.