Josh Duggar Admits To Bombshell Sexual Abuse Claims: Read His Statement And Reactions From The 19 Kids And Counting Family

Josh Duggar fully admitted to the sexual abuse claims unearthed in police reports by In Touch magazine in a shocking confession. Click through to read his statement as well as reactions from his parents, Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar, and his wife, Anna Duggar.

In a statement, Josh, 27, said he “acted inexcusably” as a teen stemming from the accusations that he molested five girls as a teenager. He also announced his resignation as Executive Director of the Family Research Council (FRC).

"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," he said in a statement. "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."

Josh’s wife, Anna Duggar, said he confessed his "past teenage mistakes" before they were married and she supports him. "I can imagine the shock many of you are going through reading this. I remember feeling that same shock," she said. "When my family and I first visited the Duggar home, Josh shared his past teenage mistakes. I was surprised at his openness and humility and at the same time didn't know why he was sharing it. For Josh, he wanted not just me but my parents to know who he really was – even very difficult past mistakes."

In a joint statement from Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar: “Back 12 years ago our family went through one of the most difficult times of our lives. When Josh was a young teenager, he made some very bad mistakes, and we were shocked. We had tried to teach him right from wrong. That dark and difficult time caused us to seek God like never before."

Their statement continues, "Even though we would never choose to go through something so terrible, each one of our family members drew closer to God. We pray that as people watch our lives they see that we are not a perfect family. We have challenges and struggles every day. It is one of the reasons we treasure our faith so much because God's kindness and goodness and forgiveness are extended to us – even though we are so undeserving. We hope somehow the story of our journey – the good times and the difficult times – cause you to see the kindness of God and learn that He can bring you through anything."