Joseph Duggar Pleads Not Guilty to Child Molestation Charges

0:00It's March 31st. This is Entertainment and Celebrity News today, powered by AI, your front row to the latest buzz. I'm Corey with the story. Joseph Dugger, the former TLC reality star from the Dugger family shows pleaded not guilty to child molestation charges after his arrest earlier this month. He faces accusations of lewd acts with a girl under 12 during a family trip to Panama City, Florida, back in 2020. And now 14-year-old victim recently reported multiple incidents to police. On March 29th, Joseph waved his arraignment, asked for a jury trial, and his team pushed for fair treatment despite his TV fame. His family highlighted his clean record with no prior crimes, seeking the lowest possible bond since he was just vacationing there briefly. Prosecutors called it a grave offense against the child and demanded no contact with the victim or any minors, plus a high bond given his lack of local. In the end, the judge set bond at $600,000.

1:01This echoes troubles for the Duggers, like brother Josh's conviction on child porn charges leading to 12 years in prison back in 20. 22. There shows 19 kids and counting and counting on got canceled amid the scandals. Joseph's next court date lands on April 20th, so we'll see how this unfolds for the family once in the spotlight.