According to KFSM Channel 5 News in Northwest Arkansas, State Senator Bart Hester is calling for the dismissal of Springdale Police Chief Kathy O'Kelley.
O'Kelley, along with Springdale City Attorney Ernest Cate, released the 2006 police report containing the accusations against Josh Duggar to In Touch Weekly. It was posted to the magazine's website last Thursday. By the end of the day, Washington County Juvenile Judge Stacey Zimmerman had issued a court order that the document be destroyed and expunged from the public record, reported KFSM.
"The law to protect minors’ identities is not a suggestion," Hester told KFSM. "So sad to see the person charged with protecting the community being so reckless and irresponsible. I believe it is unavoidable that the Springdale police chief should be terminated. She has re-victimized these young ladies."
Hester is concerned that O'Kelley will release police reports containing the details of other similar cases with juvenile victims. This incident occurred just two weeks after O'Kelley announced that she would be retiring at the end of June.
O'Kelley, along with Springdale City Attorney Ernest Cate, released the 2006 police report containing the accusations against Josh Duggar to In Touch Weekly. It was posted to the magazine's website last Thursday. By the end of the day, Washington County Juvenile Judge Stacey Zimmerman had issued a court order that the document be destroyed and expunged from the public record, reported KFSM.
"The law to protect minors’ identities is not a suggestion," Hester told KFSM. "So sad to see the person charged with protecting the community being so reckless and irresponsible. I believe it is unavoidable that the Springdale police chief should be terminated. She has re-victimized these young ladies."
Hester is concerned that O'Kelley will release police reports containing the details of other similar cases with juvenile victims. This incident occurred just two weeks after O'Kelley announced that she would be retiring at the end of June.
I have to agree on this.
ReplyDeleteI agree! When a record is sealed it isn't to be just put out there! Was it for money she did this no matter who she is retaking over the coals? SHAME SHAME SHAME I hope she is fired! Bet the Duggar are just taking it all in stride! Thats how they show the love of the LORD
DeleteI don't agree with what Josh did, but we do have to remember that he was 14. I don't understand why some people are always out to hurt someone. I believe Josh has owned up to what he did, and his victims, if I may call them that, have forgiven him. Why can't other people leave things alone? I for one will miss watching the Duggar family on TLC. If the Lord Jesus can forgive, why can't we.
ReplyDeleteI agree!
DeleteI completely agree..
DeleteI completely agree
DeleteAgreed
DeleteI would think this is against the law to release information regarding a minor, and that's what Josh was at the time. It should not be allowed, nor should it allowed to affect this family.
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with you! These records are sealed for good reasons only if all involved have approved the sealing of them. This reporter had them opened illegally just for her personal gain. She chose to hurt a good family to further her career by illegal methods! For the dollar she is hurting this wonderful family! She discusts me! Josh has repented and has been forgiven by all parties involved have forgiven him and the family. Who are we to condem him! Please put the show back on!
DeleteI have to agree. There was no reasonable excuse for these records to be brought out into the public. Why would anybody want to bring this back to the foreground to the victims and all involved. This was taken care of when it happened and the family has set up ways to prevent it from happening again. This just tears me up inside because I am a victim of sexual abuse from my past. This nightmare crosses my mind every now and then but I just turn it over to God and he gives me the strength to carry on. I pray that this will go away and all that are involved in bringing it to a "gossip" show or magazine shall take a good long look at their past life and just see how many times they made a mistake and was forgiven by God and who they affected. I'm a fan of the Duggars and will continue to be and support them in my prayers.
ReplyDeleteI agree it happened when he was 14. Whoever released the records should be prosecuted and fined.
DeleteWell said.....
DeleteI agree. I too am a victim of sexual abuse in a similar way, and I have forgiven my abuser. I would be mortified as a victim if this issue was brought to light, again, especially in such a public way! I do truly believe Josh is sorry and has changed. I wish them all the best and will be praying for all involved!
DeleteWhen those who are supposed to protect victims releases a police report of a minor involving other minors to a rag bag magazine then they should lose their jobs. That's not professionalism and therefore tax payers should not pay their paychecks. Both individuals involved should lose their jobs .
ReplyDeleteI completely agree. This whole situation is tough to digest. I think there were definite mistakes made, however I do not believe that anyone is a perfect parent either. Although I still firmly believe the Duggars are good parents and a great example in many of their beliefs and ideas. (disclaimer to any negative responders to my post...I am entitled to my opinion just as much as you are to yours, do not expect me to be engaging in a war of words or any debates) I think the police chief should be terminated and I think the tabloid who printed it should be shut down. I know it won't but my question all along is did anyone think of the victims here? This is sad.
ReplyDeleteIt is so so sad someone in her position would do such a horrible thing. The records were to stay sealed. She has hurt so many people. We need to pray for everyone involved, including the lady who realeased them.
ReplyDeleteI hope they're doing okay through all this rehashing of something they probably wish to forget :( It makes me sad when I think about how this "media scandal" junk is affecting THEM! :(
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely!! She needs to be fired immediately! Hope to see you back on the air soon. Prayers to all of you right now.
ReplyDeletewow that girl should not only b fired she should also b charged.
ReplyDeleteSounds to me like she just wanted to go out with a bang - unfortunately with no regard for the impact on others.
ReplyDeleteShame on the media for posting it..... shame on the police for releasing it........ SHAME one TLC for taking action with out knowing the fact!!!!
ReplyDeleteIt's too bad in this world it's all about the money . . . I am sure he was paid quite a bit for this information. I am praying for y'all . . .
ReplyDeleteSense at last
ReplyDeleteSounds to me like the police chief was looking for a little publicity on her way out. What a horrible shame! My prayers are with EVERYONE involved. I praise this family for the way they are supporting each other. We should all be graced with such families.
ReplyDeleteDena, I really hope the duggar family rallies around each other and can weather through this media storm! No family should have thier dirty laundry sired like this and I can just imagine how difficult it is for them during this time!!!! With that said I do hope with such a media hype this horrible situation can be used for a good purpose. Maybe this story will bring more awareness that this type of criminal behavior without judicial repercussions happens within even the must Christian and perfect families....
Deleteshe should be terminated with out benefits, she will not release any info on different reports, no one is paying her to release those, in touch magazine has ruined josh's career and subjected the victims to relive their pain and suffering again, SHAME ON YOU!!!!
ReplyDeleteI wholeheartedly agree. She should not get her retirement!
DeleteI think is time for the Duggars to move on with their own lives and stay away from the public eye. Wishing the entire family the best.
ReplyDeleteI agree they have their income without the show! They have very good work ethics!
DeleteThank you!!! Finally the focus is where it should be. Again not condoning Josh's actions... But my questions were always firstly why in the world were minor records released and why were we not focusing on the damage done to the girls by rehashing all this for absolutely no reason? Well, now we know. She was going out and she wanted to cash in at the expense of an entire family... Regardless of whether laws were broken. I say she should not only be removed immediately, she should be ineligible for pension and should have to pay whatever compensation she received from the tabloid plus pain and suffering to the Duggar family. Ridiculous. She is the type of person setting a bad name for law enforcement.
ReplyDeleteNot only have the girls been victimized but now that this is out, what about the younger Duggar kids. I'm sure the parents were keeping this from them and for good reason. I feel for those children.
DeleteI feel for all the Duggar kids. Now, even the younger ones will be traumatized.
DeleteMy heart breaks for those girls. Jana and Jinger look so sad and should be able to be let free
ReplyDeleteAbout time someone does something about that!!
ReplyDeletePraying for the Duggars
ReplyDeleteI couldn't agree more a minor's record is sealed for a reason and as officer of the law she has violated the privacy of the victims and the MINOR involved only to trash a beloved family. Please TLC bring the Duggar's back or I will no longer like many other support or watch your channel. Some people will find any means possible to tarnish a family or person they are jealous of and this is what happened here. Fix it!!!
ReplyDeleteRosalie
Sadly, the price must have been "right."
ReplyDeleteThe two distinct marks of a Christian: 1 Love. 2 Forgiveness. The world doesn't understand forgiveness. So, when a Christian like Josh, makes a mistake, the world says "oh see 'holy' person, Christians aren't as good as they look!" But no. A Christian can't be a Christian 100% of the time, but other Christians are suppose to forgive and move on. In the same case with Josh, we forgive and move on!
ReplyDeleteBlessings on the Duggar family,
Maya Spinler
Exactly! You said it perfectly!
DeleteFinally! Some adults being called out for victimizing the minors involved is long overdue
ReplyDeleteMy heart is broken I love the Duggers Its like it happened to my family I know what Josh did was wrong but got right and changed his life around where is forgiveness Jesus forgave him also his family My thoughts and prayers are with his family so thankful for their stand in Christ
ReplyDeleteI support the Duggars and what happened with the records being released was nothing but a vicious attack on them and the standards by which they live, and the Lord Jesus Christ. Joshua did wrong, but God has forgiven him, and he has changed his ways. God is the healer of all wounds, and He will heal all wounds for all the girls.
ReplyDeleteI agree. People are blaming TLC but I think from what I have read that this is political vengance on Josh due to his job at FRC. I think the best way to back the Duggarsis to do what they have shown us and trust God in the bad times as we trust God in the good times. This battle belongs to the Lord. TLC has other shows that are clean family shows that are very uplifting and clean material. TLC is caught in a catch 22 so pray for them. The show had been pulled not cancelled. Big difference!
DeleteAgreed!
ReplyDeleteGod bless this amazing family.I'm heartbroken over the cancellation of their show.I have watched it for many years
ReplyDeleteThe show hasn't been cancelled. The only reports I've seen are that it has pulled the show from its summer line up (reruns).
DeleteBut there are numerous companies pulling their ads that run during the show, so there wont be any money to aupport the show being on tv any longer.
Deletefire her
ReplyDeletePraise the Lord...there should be a outcry for the people who leaked this!
ReplyDeleteWow....definitely not OK. She needs to be terminated. I'm so sorry Duggar family. Lifting you all in prayer. <3
ReplyDeleteSome folks just aren't satisfied without a brewing pot. Please stop the revictimizing all involved including Josh and his family!
ReplyDeleteI 100% agree with this decision!!!! Shame on Chief O'Kelley for doing something so illegal, so immoral and just plain wrong!!!!
ReplyDeleteThey should be sued by the Duggers they were all miners !
ReplyDeleteWOW ~ I agree with the comments. You are in my thoughts Duggar family, I wish for the best and everyone (the world) to understand what your intentions were. You did everything you were supposed to do to help Josh, and everyone that is very dear to him! :) One thing that is so wonderful.... is honesty. I respect you & your family so much for that! Lots of hugs to you and your whole family
ReplyDeleteShould have never came out it was already dealt with , this is horrible not only for the girls this happened to but all families involved, may God Be With them all and with all the Duggers ,
ReplyDeleteAmen
ReplyDeleteWhy are they focusing on Josh these girls are the victims and I agree it shou ld NOT have been released they as good parents did what was right we just shouldn't look at noone as if they could do no wrong it's just another satan attack!!
ReplyDeleteIt is very sad that so many lives have now been affected after people wanted to cause harm. it's like a rock thrown across a lake- causing ripples across the smooth calm waters. But the blessings of the Lord are to those that seek and hide under His wing. Confessing Isaiah 54:17 and declaring it over all involved.
ReplyDeletePraying for your family.
ReplyDeleteMight want to check her bank account and see if she was paid for the info...
ReplyDeleteThis comment will in all likelihood not be published, but, I am so upset by this whole situation, I feel the need to write. Josh did wrong, there is no doubt of that and there is no going back and un victimizing the girls/women. HOWEVER, can we please take our lead from the victims? They are all grown women now, and they can tell the public as much or as little as they choose. Judging by their silence on the matter, I can only conclude that they wish to go on with their lives as they see fit. In short, public may have a right to know, but, the women have the right to their privacy. BTW I admire the Duggar family as it is shown to the public via their 19 kids and counting show , even though I am not of their religion.
ReplyDeleteI am not anonymous, I am donna darnell, but that posting choice is not offered.
Is the police chief a Democrat?
ReplyDeleteCan't say I don't disagree with the Senator because I always thought juvenile records are sealed. It's almost like the police chief felt she had to do this before leaving office for whatever reason. Very irresponsible on her part. One question - is this the same police force that John David works with? If so, I feel sorry for him -- how do you go to work with these people after all this. The decision of this police chief has just affected so many people if you ask me.
ReplyDeleteI agree, that Juvenile record should be expunged and the ones responsible for its release should be fired, disbarred and punitive damages awarded!
ReplyDeleteI agree. I love the Duggars and pray they get thru this.
DeleteDismissed along with cancellation of any pension she would have been due had she actually upheld her oath of honor.
ReplyDeleteLeave the Duggars alone.I support the family. Someone tried some time back to get them off TL a while back. Guess they got what they wanted.
ReplyDeleteShe's retiriing at the end of June? Seems awful suspicious to me. I think it was done on purpose.
ReplyDeleteI could not agree with Senator Hester more! Sounds like the police chief has a case of short timers. She might be retiring the end of June, but the laws still stand and she is charged to enforce them.
ReplyDeleteI have belived this all along. My heart aches for the family. There were minors involved. The polices duty is to protect and to serve. Releasing the report did niether to the young ladies. I can only imagene how I would feel if that were me and it was made public knowledge and tabloid fodder. I am saddened by the way the public is reacting. More concerned with taking a program off the air than the hurt of human beings. God is using the duggers though. As Christians we are learning that all people sin even Christians. What was broken can be made whole and new..i am praying for the family and for the entire situation. Gods will will be done .
ReplyDeleteThe police chief should be fired, lose her retirement and face legal charges. God bless you all. I hope TLC does the right thing and keep you all on the air!
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely! Minors were involved! That police chief should lose her job & pension for breaking the law! Then, slam her & In Touch with a huge Liable lawsuit! You know the hopefully, soon-to-be-fired police chief, made some $$ for that info!
DeleteThank you for continuing the site. I'm praying for your family to again heal from wounds that have scarred the family.
ReplyDeletewe say in French: les chiens aboient la caravane passe.
ReplyDeleteDogs bark and the caravan (vehicule) passes by. People will forget. It is an error of youth when a young man sensuality is budding. No big deal. Very common.
I am 100% behind the Duggas!! I think that Police Chief Kathy O'Kelly of Springdale should be stripped of her retirement pay or something to let her know that kind of Police work is not what we expect of the Police!! To bring up things like the Duggar incident when no one has brought it up in the public specter!! It is a good thing she is retiring, because she is a bad example of a Police Chief!! BAD JUDGEMENT ON HER PART, AND THE CITY COUNCIL WHO BACKS HER!! I love the Duggars show, and an 100% behind them: Jessa and Ben having a baby, Josh and Anna having baby #4: Jill and Derick just having had Izrael, keeping up with them and that darling little boy!!
ReplyDeleteShe destroyed Josh life
ReplyDeleteAs someone who was abused as a child by an older child, I'm discussed at what this police chief has done. She has revictimised the girls, I would be devastated if this ever happened to me. My full support is to the Duggar family and you have my prayers as do the girls who are having to relive something because some upstark women decided to realise papers that she had no right to do! God be with you at this time and may he give you strength to over come this attack. I may be in the UK but you are in my prayers.
ReplyDeletetoo late. damage is done.
ReplyDeleteNope. Still doesn't make it right. I'm surprised after all this negative backlash that Jim Bob and Michelle would even want to show their faces on tv ever again. If it were me I would go find a nice quiet place and mind my own business for a very, very long time.
ReplyDeleteI think she should be fired. These girls were let down once by the judicial system and now they are being victimized all over again. So dissipounted in the judicial system. Prayers for all.
ReplyDeleteOur family loves all of you! Including Josh. God is faithful. He is our Strong Tower. Our Redeemer. Our healer!! Rest in Him, fly above the hate, and know that you all are loved.
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry your family has had to relive the past and becriticized On how your family handled your family crisis. I myself am not sure how I would react had it been my son. Prayers are with your family.
ReplyDeleteLeave the Duggars alone! They don't need to be reminded everyday. I agree with the Senator.Team Duggar 100%
ReplyDeleteThis is incredible!!!!!! How very sad that she felt she could leak this info. Juat horrible!
ReplyDeleteBoth O'kelly and Cate should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Strip her of her retirement or something. There is no excuse for one holding public office to act in such an unethical manner, lacking in any integrity whatsoever. There is no taking this back. The Duggars have done so much to keep at least a portion of our society morally sound and being the best example possible. No family is without sin, the past is something we learn from, not drag a decade old instance through the mudhole that is todays media.
ReplyDeleteGod Bless the entire Duggar family, give them comfort in this time of trial. Christ paid the cost so that all of us can experience our Heavenly Father. Amen.
Wow..so it was obviously a vendetta. And all that this family has done for their community! Would be nice to fire her and mess with her pension to teach her a lesson but in the, God'll get her. Prayers and support are with the family.
ReplyDeleteI love the duggars and I understand they are going though a hard time but I would think that is no reason to stop posting about exciting things that are going on instead of just who supports the duggars. Beat wishes to your family!
ReplyDeleteHooray for the senator. Fire the police chief and take away her pension. It is a fundamental right to not release adolescent records, hence why they are protected, regardless if you are the Duggars or any other minor in the US. It is a law, not up to interpretation.
ReplyDeleteThe police chief is not the bad guy here. He gave a report when it was asked of him. Why don't we forgive the police chief as we have forgiven Josh Duggar.
ReplyDeletePolice reports which involve minors are ALWAYS kept locked up & confidential. Don't the Duggar family deserve the same laws everyone else gets? It's to protect minors from their stupid actions and NOT ruin their future! Also, to protect the victims! Venomous act! Not to mention, illegal! Law officers are required to abide by the LAW or face the consequences of their actions. Fire them both with no pensions! Let them bear the burden of their knowingly unlawful ADULT acts!
Delete1. She had not asked for forgiveness. It is available if she requests it.
Delete2. She is not a juvenile. She has sworn an oath to protect the public and has shown herself to be unworthy of the position
About time the Gov step in on that part of this whole thing. I could have understood her actions if it was someone still active in a crime where some one was still getting hurt. But that wasn't the case. So do not understand why she did it. The documents were primarily the victims interviews. so it wasn't an act against against somene who committed as crime, where perhaps was continuing and perhaps because of their celebrity status and popularity were getting away with it. This was against the Duggers. the victims were used to bring the Duggars down.
ReplyDeleteI don't agree with many of the things the Duggars say, And agree with the lady who wrote the amazing letter going around to the duggars about how they changed and were effected by celebrity life. You can see that by their show........
But still their a good family, held things together. Perhaps because their built on strong foundations. But going into the shadows now is not the solutions. tlc may have taken you of air. but why the web silence. Ok some will have their opinions as you do.
Way of the world, freedom of speech often has no conscious or compassion for those who disagree with you.-
That's from all sides -
the world aint perfect but good people try to make it better, but sometimes become blurred on what they believe is right or wrong- no ones immune.
Its not about accepting, but respecting.
And I for respect the Duggars. For who they are, a strong family with open hearts........ maybe add a bit of open mindness to that recipe and you could achieve even more than you have.
Stay strong, don't hide, or stay silent. don't remember the bad times, but the good.
Walk with Angels.
Thank the Lord for some justice in this situation!
ReplyDeleteYes!! This whole situation should have never been made public. It was a private family matter that was handled, and should have been left at that. I already miss the show on TLC. Y'all are an amazing family with great morals and love your faith. It was nice to see a Christian show in the middle of all the other garbage on TV. Please keep doing what you're doing!!
ReplyDeleteI completely agree!
DeleteOn CHANGE.ORG they can set up a petition calling for termination....
ReplyDeleteI"m not sure how this all works with the Freedom of Information Act, but I do know that they should have redacted the names of the victims' parents, i.e., Jim Bob and Michelle.
ReplyDeleteI agree in the immediate termination of the Springdale Police Chief Kathy O'Kelley and the Springdale City Attorney Ernest Cate!! They clearly did not do their jobs in protecting the minors in this case. Also, what was their INTENTION in releasing the 2006 police report to In Touch Weekly? What were they paid for this? The money should be used to start a fund for minor victims, plus they should each be held accountable to pay a very large fine for not upholding the law of their positions.
ReplyDeleteI support the Duggar family. Boys of 14 starting puberty are curious. He should not have involved these girls, but possibly needed a little more sex education from the parents. All the good things this family represents certainly is valuable. What has happened to the family viewing time on TV? Even at 7:00 pm. shows are practically x rated. I have been an avid watcher of this TLS show since its' beginning and I want to keep watching it. Don't cancel. What was the plan in the future for this show when the kids were grown and they were going to run into the problems we all eventually run into, don't show them handling trouble? Trouble comes to everyone. This is a reality show. Let's see how a fine, decent, large family deals with it.
ReplyDeleteI agree
DeleteShe should get terminated now and have no retirement benefits.She had no concern for these young women and for their futures.All of this will just stir up issues that have already been resolved within the family.She should have left it to God.
ReplyDeleteFiring isn't even enough, but it is a start.
ReplyDeletePraying peace, comfort and love for this mess that this family is going through. Love you all so much.
ReplyDeleteYes, people in authority are not above the law! If they break the law, they should suffer the consequences (and I am not just talking about being fired). She was in it to "make a buck".
ReplyDeleteI Agree with the senator and I will boycott TLC and discovery network as well.everyone else I know will do the same.
ReplyDeleteYes, amen to That.
DeleteShe should be fired. Josh did wrong, but the sisters didn't! The details should not have been released for all to see!!! This happened before the show started, so please can we have the show back on? If nothing else, take Josh off the show and let the rest of the family be on.
ReplyDeleteThe family will stick together. They have forgiven him and were able to move on. And there love for eachother is strong. They would not want to do the show with out him because he is part of the family.
DeleteGossip magazines pay large sums for "juicy stories." It would be interesting to learn how much the police chief received for releasing these records. While what Joshua did was in excusable, he was a young teen. The police chief is an adult. What she did was illegal and unethical. Josh resigned his job. Shouldn't the police chief do the same?
ReplyDeleteMy jaw had literally dropped open as I read this blog article. I cannot believe two city officials, one of which is an attorney, should have released a juvenile report to a cheap magazine. I don't know what would have caused them to seek revenge on the Duggar family but this is absolutely horrible that they should do such a thing knowing it would not only bring about attacks on Josh but also to hurt the girls involved and re-open old wounds. Not only should O'Kelley be immediately dismissed but Attorney Cate should be disbarred from ever practicing law again. Isn't John David a police officer and, if so, is he with the Springdale police department? As I said, this is clearly an act of revenge. I hope the Duggar family is staying strong. Your sister in Christ, Joyce Anglin Miller
ReplyDeleteIs there a petition to keep 19 Kids and Counting on the air? I can't find one. The petition that others are speaking of on change.org from what I can see and have read is to cancel the show. Please read the fine print before you sign.
ReplyDeleteOh, and I agree with the senator. She should be terminated. What she has done is so heartless and unprofessional. She released those records obviously for her own gain. Who knows how much she was paid under the table to do that.
I'm praying for you Duggar family! God has your back! Good always comes out of bad if you place it in his control.
I want to see them back on TV
DeleteWhere is a petition???
DeleteReckless! I cannot believe a supposedly educated and to hold a title to protect the innocent and voluntarily give information without informing higher authority is reckless! I feel its vindictive, hateful and should be treated as a hate crime. I feel there should reprocussions and should be treated as a crime! The children have been victimized by her ignorance!
ReplyDeleteAmen Praying
DeleteIronic timing that it was release just after her retirement announcement. This is a disgraceful situation and the identity of minors should always be protected.
ReplyDeleteI can't imagine what the victims are going through now... they have to walk through this again. Protect these girls! By releasing the report, you are doing no good. I pray for the Duggar Family.
ReplyDeleteHow much did Kathy O'Kelley get paid, under the table, of course, for releasing that info? Anybody investigating that??
ReplyDeleteOr maybe threatened?
DeleteI'm so glad someone is finally talking about the person who released the police reports. I didn't realize that juvenile police records were a matter of public record. Police Chief Kathy O'Kelley needs to be held accountable for her actions. She is fortunate that she chose juveniles from the Duggar family to re-victimize because they have already prayed for her and forgiven her.
ReplyDeleteGod have mercy at the injustice that's been done against Josh, his family, and all the victims! I guess the police chief didn't see too much risk associated with her job seeing as how retirement was already lined up. She shouldn't just be fired, but she should be fined as well! I've been praying daily for the entire Duggar family....sadly, their lives will never be the same.
ReplyDeleteThe County Attornery should be fired & have his license to practice law revoked!
DeleteBring the Duggars back!! I hope they sue O'Kelley!
ReplyDeleteThat's terrible! She should be ashamed of herself!
ReplyDeleteI think this is a disgrace and an attempt to belittle Christian people. I have watched this family on tv for years and been so blessed by this program. It reminds me of the values we had when I was a child. I wish those values were still being used in families today. Josh did things against those values but he has repented. We all have sinned but by the Grace of God, we are forgiven. I don't believe anyone that has condemned Josh is without sin and can cast the first stone. I have blocked TLC on my tv and will not unblock them unless this program comes back with a full apology for what they have done to this family. God Bless the Duggars!
ReplyDeleteI believe that Josh was in the wrong. But I also believe that Christ forgives and a person can change and be repentful. The police chief was in the wrong - she broke the law by releasing the information regarding a minor's actions. Please do not remove the show.
ReplyDeleteTLC is victimizing these girls as well. They are punishing the victims! Shame on them and every advertiser that further hurts these girls by refusing to support the show.
ReplyDeleteI would like to know what his sisters have to say about being molested by their own brother. That had to be a major trauma in their lives.
ReplyDeleteWhat a terrible thing for the family to go through, and now for it to be public! They will be in my prayers. I don't think the show should be cancelled. People have issues and make mistakes no matter how they are raised.
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts of this whole thing is; He was 14 years old, in this day and time everything is made to public and I understand Jim Bob and Michelle keeping it quite. Nobody wants their family put on public display when something happens like this. When I was growing up we never heard about things like this and Jim Bob and Michelle are close to my age. If things like this did happen it was handled the same way they handle it. In private, you prayed for forgiveness and you asked the other people involved to forgive you. An another thing how many young boys at that age hasn't done almost the same thing because they wanted to know about the other sex.
ReplyDeleteThe freedom of information act covers FEDERAL info. This info should have NEVER been released and intentions and motives must be questioned by the authorities who were involved in the release of the documents. Praying God's grace to cover ALL involved! We all have sinned and fall short...we all need forgiveness!
ReplyDeleteHow shameful. So glad senator stepped up to resolve. I hope she is sued to loose her tax payer pension. She put the entire department at risk. Shame on that attorney. His job is to protect the public and he told her no and report her. Maybe he can be reported to bar association to be disbarred
ReplyDeleteI agree! Both "adults" involved should be fired, stripped of their pensions, fined heavily enough to get all the money put into helping juvenile victims, and their parents, get the help they need! This unlawful act should be punished swiftly & harshly!
DeleteI was shocked! Does she have something against children? Yes, she should be fired at least.
ReplyDeleteMy Heart Is breaking for the Dugger family including Josh. You were forgiven the moment you asked due to the love of Jesus Christ. Please know that we are all praying for you.
ReplyDelete@Anonymous It is against the law as everyone involved were minors
ReplyDeleteThat woman should be jailed. The Victims in this case should have come first. Their feelings should have been the one and only thing in the chief's mind. It doesn't matter what the chief thinks of the Duggars or Josh or how this was handled years ago. Nothing can change the past. Putting that report out makes those young ladies victims again. I'll say a prayer for all of them.
ReplyDeleteBRING BACK THE SHOW MY DAUGHTERS AND I ENJOY THE FAMILY AND I DONT AGREE WITH THEM CANCELLING IT ,IF IT REALLY DID HAPPEN IT HAPPENED YEARS AGO AND THE FAMILY SHOULDNT BE THE TALK OF THE STATE SUE THE PERSONT WHO STARTED THIS CRAP .THIS IS ONE OF THE BEST FAMILY SHOW ON TV SINCE THE OLDEN DAYS LEAVE THE DUGGAR FAMILY ALONE THEY ARE GOOD PEOPLE I LOVE THEM
ReplyDeleteI agree she should be fired. Please TLC bring the Duggars back. Praying this goes away fast and the victims don't have to relive this much longer.
ReplyDeleteThere will be lawsuits over this for sure. I believe the Police Chief and City Attorney are guilty of a lapse in judgment; just like Josh was as a teenager. However, as adult City employees, the City of Springdale will be sued for their wrong decision. They should have sought the advice of the juvenile court before releasing the information.
ReplyDeleteMy heart aches for the Duggar family. Shame on the police chief for allowing a juvenile record to be released and shame on TLC for not knowing the facts surrounding the events of what happened. I'm going to call Disvovery Communications and tell them how I feel about their actions and tell them if they cancel 19 Kids and Counting I will NEVER WATCH THAT CHANNEL AGAIN. Us fans are impacted by getting to know the family and all we can do is pray for them. We're all attached to them. Its a shame that people have to be so bloodthirsty that they have to ruin someone else's life.
ReplyDeleteNot only should she be dismissed ,she should lose her pension .
ReplyDelete
ReplyDeleteI think both should be fired and put in prison for breaking the law.
This should never have happened. So many lives will never be the same because someone in power broke the rules. Its saddens me to know that the family will be hurt because people can be cruel. I pray for each of you and know that God is with you. I support the Duggars and enjoy watching a Christian show. God Bless You!
ReplyDeleteI hope Christians who comment on this blog remember that they will be held accountable for their motives and the things they write. Revenge belongs to God and accusing the Police Chief and City Attorney of wrong motives will not be looked upon kindly by God who requires us to forgive them just as much as we are required to forgive Josh. Ask God if He approves of your attitude and your words before you write. They will know we are Christians by our LOVE; not our hate speech.
ReplyDeleteHow many Christians are praying for the owners and employees of In Touch Weekly who requested this information and published it on their website? We can do more to resolve this by forgiving and praying for them than calling down fire from heaven to destroy all who were involved in the release of this information. Perhaps we should deluge their website with messages of the love of Jesus and send them Bibles and tracts.
ReplyDeletePraise the Lord! That report should have NEVER been released. He was a minor as were the girls. It is NOT ok. However, ruining multiple lives a dozen years later is not the way to do things nor the right of ONE person who CHOSE to release the record to a GOSSIP magazine. Shame on them!
ReplyDeleteI feel badly that she chose to make a bad decision and not follow the laws. Someone in this position although, also not perfect, should make a point of trying to obey laws, especially when they are there to protect minors and victims and the innocent. I don't think they have a choice they have to remove her and all others the assisted her.
ReplyDeleteI feel so bad for the family. Josh did something wrong, yes, but who didn't make mistakes as a teenager. Laws are different in various states as to the age difference of the children involved, and it's not considered a crime, for instance, if the age difference is less than 5 years. I am in no way saying what happened is okay, understand that, but there are other things to think about. The victimization has happened all over again and those who want to jump at the chance to say the Duggars are hypocrites don't truly understand Christianity. Those involved with releasing this information should be ashamed for for trying to prove how Christians aren't so perfect after all, and in the process hurting people who did nothing wrong.
ReplyDeleteI absolutely agree this should have never been allowed to be made public. Not only do the victims have to relive this terrible ordeal, they have to with the world watching. But it was my understanding that juvenile records could be released to the public as long as their information was redacted. I read the report on InTouch Weekly's website (only because I wondered if they did). Unless I missed something, they did mark out all of the juvenile's information including Josh's. And the website said the report was obtained through the freedom of information
ReplyDeleteIt makes you wonder if someone might have been given some $
ReplyDeleteShe has to live with trying to destroy a precious family. They are God's children, and God doesn't look to highly on his children getting hurt. Just sayin
I have supported the Michelle and Jim Bob, they did what they thought was right, I'm sure they were on their knees before God.
The whole Duggar family is in my prayers, Satan has his army of destroyers but our God is the Almighty he will have his will over Satan and his destroyers. One day ever knee will bend to Jesus
@AnonymousI I completely understand the forgiveness because I am a Christian but there is a legal aspect to this as well as responsibity of the parents to make sure all the people involved received proper counseling. Our prisons are full of forgiven people that made bad choices but have to none the less pay their debt to society. We all live under laws and rules that we as a society set in place. The Duggars are no exception.... I am reasonably sure this remark will not be published because it isn't doesn't agree with most of the people posting....
ReplyDeleteNot just terminated but they need to prosecute her to the fullest extent of the law. The Duggars need to file a suit against her also. This person acted in a reckless and harmful way and the victims are now forced to relieve the pain, distress & anxiety in front of the world. What she has done is a crime.
ReplyDeleteThe whole family should not have to be publicly humiliated by ones actions from that long ago. They did nothing wrong only he did and and apparently they had put it behind them. Why cant everyone leave well enough alone
ReplyDeleteI second that
DeleteThank you Lilly and Ellie for continuing to blog. I think many of us are praying for the Duggars and want to know from reliable sources what is going on. Thanks for not being 'fair weather friends'. God bless.
ReplyDeleteFor releasing juvenile records involving minor victims, she should be fired, lose all pensions & benefits, arrested & charged for releasing the info to the media, and charged with additional crimes if she has or will receive as much as a red nickel for releasing confidential law-enforcement records.
ReplyDeleteThis should have never been leaked. But on the other hand Josh should have been fully investigated at the time of the incidences. I love this family, but I don't think they are affectively able to portray their godly lifestyle during this current witch hunt. It might time for the Duggar's & TLC to move on. A born-again follower of Christ perfectly understands forgiveness & redemption & becoming a new creature under grace, but the world we live in cannot.
ReplyDelete@Anonymous
ReplyDeletethe police chief is at fault due to 1. it is illegal to reveal any records of a juvenile and 2.Since there was never any formal charges and the statue of limitations had passed anways the record should have been destroyed at that time not 12 yrs later. Even if what happened was wrong it still doesnt make their rights be taken away
Good thing the Diggers are Christians. Any other family would sue this police officer. I pray she never feels the pain she has caused this family & their friends. May God show her the mercy she couldn't show this family.
ReplyDeleteThis particular 14 year old knew he was doing something wrong and turned himself in to his parents for help. They arranged for him to be out of the home and get some help. They did not deny the offense and they sought help for the family. What more should they have done? From a reading of the report, it seems they also made a safety plan to prevent future occurrences.
ReplyDeletePut yourselves in their position. What would you do? You would wish to protect ALL of your children. They did exactly that.
I do not think the Duggars or any other parent have an obligation to sell an offending child down the river legally or to publish his offense. They do have an obligation to protect the children who were victims and they did that and they do have an obligation to try to help the offending child. They did that, too.
Josh has not tried to hide what he did. But do keep in mind he was a MINOR and he and the victims who were abused by him were ENTITLED to privacy.
In my mind, the publication of this police report re-victimizes the victims about events that happened more than a decade ago. Aren't they entitled to move on? Aren't they entitled to privacy about something that happened to them when they were children that they have chosen not to publicize?
I was a victim of child sexual abuse, too. When it happened to me, I had a lot of trouble coping. I SURE would not have wanted my pain to be splashed all over the media!
Nancy
Expose the pay off amount for disclosure of sealed records to the general public by in house officials who are hired by citizens as civil servants to protect and uphold the law. That in and of itself is a great breech by seasoned adults bound by the law? Why not focus on that or has the public become too used to corruption within the system? TLC please walk the general public through the reality of life of which the Duggar family fully leads with courage.
ReplyDeleteObviously, wickness is shown in this picture. She publicized this critical story, 2 weeks after stating she will be resigning. Now, who is to be shamed? I hope the duggars and Senator take strong legal actions on this matter!!! And for the Duggars, the battle is not over. Its not against flesh and blood but rulers and principalities in the air. There is a family back in Miami praying for ya'll. God Bless, we love you!!!
ReplyDeleteSupport the Duggars by going to TLC.com and choose Corporate and then Programming and tell them not to cancel The Duggars. There should be more families like them in the world. They all teach us how to be kinder to one another.
ReplyDeleteI have written numerous times and never have my comments been published so I am pretty certain these won't either, but I will try again. This whole situation is so very sad on so many levels. My heart goes out to the girls who were victimized by their brother. I have six brothers and can't imagine for one minute this ever happening. That being said, my heart also goes out to Josh and Anna. I hope their children are sheltered from this situation for as long as is possible. However, I have had great concern for the Duggar's for the past two years. You can't be involved in social media/magazine articles etc. and not expect backlash. I for one am glad TLC took the show off the air. This family needs to heal in so many ways. They do not need cameras in their home. I care more about their healing then I do about who is courting whom. If the Lord wants them back on TV then it will happen. If He doesn't then so be it. Let this family be.
ReplyDeleteMy whole family stands by the Duggars 100%. I pray that God protect every last person in their family during this hard time.And i pray that God will handle the ones that are trying to hurt his anointed children(the Duggar family and anyone else that believes Jesus is OUR Lord and Savior) and soften their hearts to his mercy and love. And show them that the Duggars are truely a good influence. God Bless.
ReplyDeleteWhere can we sign a petition to save the show?
ReplyDeletenah, the duggars deserve what they are getting. they decided to be public, now they have to deal with the consequences of being in the public eye.
ReplyDeleteIts so good to see ppl I can agree with. It seems that. In the other sites people are just tearing josh to shreds. The names he is being called are unacceptable. This was a minors file and should never have been seen...it was supposed to be locked up and key thrown away. The police chief needs to go and and so does in touch weekly. Its a trash magazine. TMZ is just as bad too.
ReplyDelete@Anonymous
ReplyDeleteBecause the police chief serves to protect the public and she violated people's privacy and rights. Maybe even illegally. Her actions caused a great deal of damage. She hasn't apologized or asked for forgiveness. Furthermore, one asks what her motives were. Obviously she has worked in law enforcement for a long time, and by no means is she dumb. She knew exactly what she was doing. The question is why. What bothered her so much that she would do it. It was personal.
He was a curious 14 year old kid. He made it right with our heavenly father and that's what matters Now I would like to see how many people that sinned against Josh and his family has the guts to repent and ask the good Lord for their forgiveness. My prayers go out to you all, No Josh should Not be dropped from 19 kids and counting, he was the beginning of 19 kids....... God Bless You All
ReplyDeleteI pray for the Duggar family. I also hope that the show will continue. I miss them. Hope we can still get updates of the family here.
ReplyDeleteFor those interested in keeping this show on the air, you can quickly leave TLC a comment of support here: http://corporate.discovery.com/contact/viewer-relations/
ReplyDeleteAction should be taken against the police chief. Hang in there Duggars. You are tough. You are an inspiration to so many people.
ReplyDeleteFor the few of you who choose to defend the police chief... DON'T. She serves to protect the public and she has caused a great deal of damage to many. She has not apologized or explained her actions. What she did was intentional, and it was personal. She knew exactly what she was doing when she released that report.
ReplyDeleteThe police chief, the lawyer and every single person involved in releasing the information should be terminated IMMEDIATELY. Legal action should be taken against them and the magazine as well. Of course the magazine paid money for this information. They are a gossip magazine. Every time you buy a publication like that, you are promoting gossip. The police chief, lawyer, magazine - everyone involved have all caused an incredible amount of damage. It is imperative that someone stands up to them. Just because you are a Christian does not mean that you can't defend yourself. When people do not stand up against evil and wrong-doings, it continues. Who is going to be next? By the way, this is a principle thing. If you keep your mouth shut, don't think that something like this won't happen to you. Stand up for what is right. Stand up for the victims. Just because the Duggars are on TV does not mean that they deserve this. Praying for the whole Duggar family during this time.
ReplyDeletethis happened when Josh was 14. But if I read all this above, I read: If the the Lord Jesus forgive we can forgive too. Well, I think in this way then: Let us forgive this police chief too. Maybe a mistake from her. Let we not judge. Once she has to give an account, if it is not here then when she pass away and have to stand for a righteous God.
ReplyDeleteWe better pray for everyone, Families and also for the police chief.
The police chief absolutely needs to be fired and the city attorney needs to be dis-barred. Josh was a minor and those records should have been sealed in order to protect everyone involved! This was a private family matter that never should have been made public! Who else's records have they made public? They crossed the line. Josh apologized and was forgiven. He got the help he needed and turned his life around. The girls got the counseling they needed and were able to move on. Leave the Duggars alone and put their show back on as an inspiration to others who have gone thru this.
ReplyDeleteFor the few of you who choose to defend the police chief... DON'T. She serves to protect the public and she has caused a great deal of damage to many. She has not apologized or explained her actions. What she did was intentional, and it was personal. She knew exactly what she was doing when she released that report.
ReplyDeleteI think that the law officer that published all this or made it publishable needs to be talked too about this Josh even though he did something bad its not up to us to judge and besides all that he needs to deal with all of it and he did when he was14 and this record wasnt even suppose to be opened up a minor are suppose to have things expunged this family has suffered enough and to take the show away. I admire them for their striving to do right before God and man and to talk the talk they walk the walk. God bless them all.
ReplyDelete@AnonymousI couldn't have said this better myself. It's word for word how I have felt about the whole sad ordeal.
ReplyDelete@Jodie B
ReplyDeleteIt is still a crime if it isn't consensual, which I doubt it was.
I pray for this family, for the girls affected, and the two who inappropriately and cruelly released these documents. I don't know the details, but it appears he and his family took responsibility for his actions, sought help, provided help to the girls, came before God and asked forgiveness, and have been open about it to who needs to know (i.e. his wife). I hope the show continues on many accounts. It makes it even more clear that they are just like all of us no matter how in line our religious beliefs are with theirs or not… we are all flawed and have our struggles. This makes me also feel that he should not resign from his current job as I have read he did. There is no such thing as a good Christian. We are all sinners unworthy of the grace He gives us. His response to his undeniably inexcusable actions is a good example… open, uncovered, before God, making changes for the better…
ReplyDeleteWhen the news first broke my first comment was, "who gained what from releasing information in regards to a juveniles criminal record"
ReplyDeleteWhy release information that would not only destroy a man who has obviously changed his life since the indiscretion and expose tgthe e victim's...causing them more trauma and pain.
Did she not consider the victims, and who does she truly think she is.....how does she figure it was her duty to release a closed and should have been sealed juvenile record ....what a LARGE EGO
I think that immediate termination with no retirement benefits....may sound harsh to some but look what she has done, lives she has destroyed, if she were a doctor, nurse she would be sued for mal practice
I am a victim/survivor of childhood sexual abuse and i dont know of any pre teen teenager that wasn't curious, nor do i know any that would come forward and confess wrong doings....so Jim Bob and Michelle must be doing something right
wow such hate for this police chief! You all forgave Josh what about her. Doesn't she deserve forgiveness too? My main concern if for the sisters. Have any of them gone to therapy? Has Josh? I think they should live their life in private and be done with the show. I have tried many times to post this and don't see it any where...maybe because I have a different opinion then everyone else...I hope that is not the reason. I just can't imagine what those poor girls went through...how scary.
ReplyDeleteFor the sake of the girl victims, I have to agree that someone needs to be held accountable to the illegal release of the documents. Josh has been dealt with and properly disciplined according to his and his parent's statements. None of this would even be public knowledge except for this leak of private information about minors.
ReplyDeleteFinally! Get the attention where it needs to be....on the people who released juvenile case information and those who published it. Those involved need to be charged and need to start praying for forgiveness. Leave the Duggar's alone. For the Duggar's, you all have so much support and many who are praying with you daily. God Bless.
ReplyDeleteI love how they think they were above the law. They deserve to be fired.
ReplyDeleteI can not believe most people are concerned with the show being cancel! The big picture here and those poor girls that are victims of this. The show is a minor thing. Does any one else get that? I can't see TLC keeping the show...when most of their big sponsors have pulled out.
ReplyDeleteI could respect the Duggars if they stepped down from TLC.
ReplyDeleteLOVE THE dUGGER FAMILY AND SUPPORT THEM 100% tHE POLICE CHEIF NEEDS TO BE CHARGED, AND SUED BY THE Duggers.
ReplyDeleteThis issue needs to be heavily investigated. In Touch probably paid an awful lot of money to get that report, especially since it involved minors and should never have been released. What good will it do to fire someone whom is about to retire? Charges and lawsuits need to be brought up against these two. It needs to be made known that it is not ok and there are consequences.
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with this. The persons involved with publicizing this should be terminated. If Mr. Duggar was 30 and committed these inexcusable acts, then I could understand. He was 14 years old and it was well over 10 years ago. The only reason this was released to the public was pure evil. God has forgiven him these sins and he has moved on and is a productive young man in this society, raising his children in a Christian home, and did not deserve this. He has lost his job and a big chunk of his reputation. I do NOT agree with TLC pulling this show from the air, what a wonderful example of God's mercy and forgiveness would it be to see how this spiritual family handles this crisis. I pray for this family, I admire this family. I would be thrilled to have this family for a friend. People of faith are often victims of mockery and evil, but I find great comfort in knowing that this family, and others like them, are raising a family filled with God and filled with love for each other and their fellow man. Those without sin should cast the first stone.
ReplyDeleteShame to any who entitled themselves to read the detailed police report.
ReplyDeleteI heard on the news that Oprah is the one that has been behind this being drug out into the public. If this is true, she has done a horrible thing and she needs to be held accountable for it. SHAME for putting these people through this. But if it has to do with Christians..satan is trying very way in this world to drag them down and as long as there are praying Chistians left, we can lift them up. I STAND BEHIND THE DUGGARS.
ReplyDeleteJosh was a minor and the laws did not protect him. I feel his parents did the best they could they are not a perfect family he was a young boy interested in the opposite sex.I remember growing up and some of my male cousins could have been in Josh s shoes.
ReplyDelete@AnonymousIn order to get forgiveness you ask for it first. Did the police chief ask? I don't think that is a very good argument, and really it is kind of attacking people commenting on her actions.
ReplyDelete@Anonymous
ReplyDeleteOprah contacted child protection in 2006 when she learned of Josh's abuse. She also cancelled a scheduled taping of the Duggars. She did the right thing. Teachers, medical and law enforcement officials are all mandatory reporters. If any one of them had learned of the abuse, they would have been duty bound to contact CP, just like Oprah did. She did not alert the media.
I totally agree. Releasing this report has damaged a lot of peoples lives. Someone should pay for allowing the media to get a copy of a report on minors.
ReplyDeletePraying for all of the Duggars during this trying time.
ReplyDelete