Josh Duggar, the oldest son of the Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar of the TLC reality show "19 Kids and Counting" is resigning as executive director of the Family Research Council following published
reports he sexually abused minor girls when he was a teenager.
Details of the molestations, some of which were committed against family members, were first reported by
In Touch magazine. The publication received a copy of a police report through a Freedom of Information Act request.
"Twelve years ago, as a young teenager, I acted inexcusably for which I am extremely sorry and deeply regret. I hurt others, including my family and close friends," Josh Duggar, now 27,
told People. "I confessed this to my parents who took several steps to help me address the situation. 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."
But according to In Touch, Duggar's father, Jim Bob, did not report the actions to police for a year after Josh confessed his actions to his parents. The police report obtained by In Touch also indicates that Josh did not talk to a licensed counselor, but to a family friend. Josh was sent to work for the friend who was in the home remodeling business.
Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar issued a statement supporting their son, as did his wife, Anna. Anna Duggar said Josh admitted his past actions to her and her family the first time they visited the Duggar home.
"I was surprised at his openness and humility and at the same time didn't know why he was sharing it," Duggar said. "For Josh, he wanted not just me but my parents to know who he really was – even very difficult past mistakes."
"I would do anything to go back to those teen years and take different actions," Josh said.
"I sought forgiveness from those I had wronged and asked Christ to forgive me and come into my life. In my life today, I am so very thankful for God's grace, mercy and redemption."
FRC President Tony Perkins issued a statement on Duggar's resignation,
Mediaite reported.
"Today Josh Duggar made the decision to resign his position as a result of previously unknown information becoming public concerning events that occurred during his teenage years," Perkins said. "Josh believes that the situation will make it difficult for him to be effective in his current work. We believe this is the best decision for Josh and his family at this time. We will be praying for everyone involved."