Authorities say a years-old allegation involving a child victim surfaced during a recent interview, leading to an arrest and pending extradition.
Bay County, FL – A 31-year-old man identified as a former reality television personality has been charged in Bay County with multiple child sex offenses stemming from an alleged incident during a 2020 family vacation in Panama City Beach, according to the Bay County Sheriff’s Office.
Key Points
- 31-year-old man charged with lewd and lascivious molestation involving a child under 12
- Allegations stem from a 2020 trip to Panama City Beach
- Suspect admitted to actions when confronted, investigators say
The suspect, Joseph Garrett Duggar, is charged with lewd and lascivious molestation of a victim under 12 years old and lewd and lascivious conduct by a person 18 years or older. He was arrested out of state Wednesday and is currently awaiting extradition to Bay County.
Allegations surfaced during forensic interview
According to investigators, the case came to light after a now 14-year-old victim disclosed the alleged abuse during a forensic interview. Authorities said the incidents occurred when the victim was 9 years old during a family vacation in 2020.
The Bay County Sheriff’s Office stated the incidents took place at a residence on Danny Drive in Panama City Beach. During that time, Duggar allegedly engaged in inappropriate contact with the child on multiple occasions.
“The 14-year-old victim participated in a forensic interview, where she disclosed several incidents involving Duggar,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement.
Fans React
The show has a large fanbase and while the Real Housewives of New Jersey are the starlets of the Garden State, many enjoyed watching the Duggar’s lives unfold on their televisions.
“Honestly, I’m just sick over it. You watch someone grow up on TV, thinking you know who they are, and then something like this comes out—it’s shocking and disgusting,” said Pam, a Kearny resident and mother of three. “It makes you question everything you thought you saw.”
“I’m definitely shocked, but at the same time, not completely surprised. When you grow up with cameras in your face and that kind of pressure, it’s hard to believe everything is as perfect as it looked on TV,” said Jennifer, an X user from North Jersey.
Admission reported during confrontation
Investigators said the victim’s father confronted Duggar on March 17 regarding the allegations. During that confrontation, authorities say Duggar admitted to his actions.
“Duggar admitted his actions to the victim’s father and to Tontitown Detectives,” according to the release.
The investigation began when Tontitown, Arkansas police contacted Bay County authorities about the report of past sexual abuse.
Charges filed, extradition pending
Duggar now faces felony charges in Florida and is expected to be transported to Bay County to face prosecution. Officials confirmed he had previously appeared on the TLC television series “19 Kids and Counting.”
The investigation remains ongoing.
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