It's been nearly six months since Josh Duggar was arrested in Arkansas on charges related to having and sharing child sexual abuse images. The scandal, not Duggar's first of that variety, rocked his famous family and put an end to their television tenure on TLC after more than 15 years.
The charges against Duggar are serious, though he has pleaded not guilty and maintained his innocence. He will face trial in late November. His and wife Anna Duggar's seventh child will likely be born by the time he stands trial, though it will not keep her from being at his side.
She proved just that when she stood by her husband, smiling as they walked out of court despite the blow they'd just received.
On September 28, 2021, an Arkansas judge denied four out of five motions to suppress evidence and, in turn, have the child sexual abuse image case against Josh Duggar dismissed. Duggar, who was present for the decision, did not seem deterred. The fifth motion has yet to be ruled on.
Of the four motions denied, there were motions to suppress statements and a request for an evidentiary hearing, to dismiss the case on claims of the government's failure to preserve potentially exculpatory evidence, to suppress photographs of Duggar's hands and feet while in custody, and to dismiss an indictment for violation of the appointments.
Following the hearing, local ABC affiliate 40/29 News caught Duggar and his wife, Anna, leaving the courthouse. She smiled and held his hand with her head held high. She is currently pregnant with their seventh child.
The couple's six children are growing up fast. Oldest Mackynzie Renée is 11 years old, followed by 10-year-old Michael James. Next is 8-year-old Marcus Anthony, 6-year-old Meredith Grace, 4-year-old Mason Garrett, and Maryella Hope, who will turn 2 in November. Duggar currently has unlimited access to his children as long as Anna Duggar is present.
Sources maintain that Anna Duggar is dedicated to standing by her husband throughout the entire ordeal. "She's standing by him," the source told People magazine.
"She thinks Josh is innocent."
If convicted, Josh Duggar faces up to 20 years of imprisonment and fines up to $250,000 on two counts. In total, he faces a possible sentence 40 years and $500,000 in fines.
The charges against him have taken their toll on the extended Duggar family. Legally, Josh Duggar cannot spend any time around his nieces and nephews and even some of his younger siblings, all of minor age. Some members of the family have been vocal in showing concern for all parties involved, including victims, which is unlike the official prayerful stance of parents Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar.
"We appreciate your continued prayers for our family at this time. The accusations brought against Joshua today are very serious," the couple's statement read.
"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."
