Josh Duggar, known for appearing in “19 Kids and Counting,” has been arrested in Arkansas. The 33-year-old reality star was arrested on federal charges related to the possession of child pornography on Thursday afternoon.
The US attorney’s office released a statement that Duggar allegedly downloaded material that depicted the sexual abuse of children under the age of 12 in May 2019.
Josh Duggar appeared on the show “19 Kids and Counting” as the oldest son of Michelle and Jim Bob Duggar. The indictment for Duggar shows one count of possession of child pornography and one count of receipt of child pornography. With those charges, Duggar faces up to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $250,000 if convicted.
He appeared in federal court Friday via video conference and pleaded not guilty to both charges.
“We intend to defend this case aggressively and thoroughly. In this country, no one can stop prosecutors from charging a crime. But when you’re accused, you can fight back in the courtroom — and that is exactly what Josh intends to do,” Duggar’s attorneys said in an email to CNN Friday.
Duggar is set to appear in court again on May 5 for a detention hearing. The trial is currently scheduled for July 6, Judge Erin Wiedemann said.
Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar posted a statement on their family website about the “very serious accusations” Duggar is facing.
“We appreciate your continued prayers for our family at this time. The accusations brought against Joshua today are very serious. It is our prayer that the truth, no matter what it is, will come to light and that this will all be resolved in a timely manner. We love Josh and Anna and continue to pray for their family,” they said.
