ARKANSAS (KNWA/KFTA) — An extension has been granted for Josh Duggar’s child pornography trial, according to documents from the U.S. District Court of the Western District of Arkansas Fayetteville Division on Tuesday, June 29, 2021.
A jury trial has been ordered to begin Nov. 30 at 9 a.m., with a pretrial conference on Nov. 18 at 9 a.m.
“The court grants this continuance based on its finding that the ends of justice served by taking such action outweigh the best interest of the public and the defendant in a speedy trial,” the court order stated.
Duggar, 33, was charged in a two-count indictment alleging receipt and possession of child pornography. He pleaded not guilty to both counts and was granted release from the Washington County Detention Center in early May. He remains in the custody of a third-party custodian in Washington County.
The former reality star faces up to 40 years in prison and a $500,000 fine if convicted of both charges.
According to a report from Us Weekly, TLC sent a statement to the outlet confirming that the show “Counting On” has been canceled.
The TLC statement: “TLC will not be producing additional seasons of Counting On,” the network said in a statement to Us Weekly. “TLC feels it is important to give the Duggar family the opportunity to address their situation privately.”
The Duggar Family statement about TLC’s announcement to no longer film “Counting On”:
It is hard to believe that more than 17 years have passed since we were first contacted by a production company wanting to do a one-hour documentary about the logistics of raising 14 children. Our family has grown (and grown-up!) before our eyes and on national television, and the journey has been miraculous—following God is an exciting adventure!
Over the years, some of our most treasured moments have been those when we met children across the country who are alive today because of our testimony that children are a blessing—a special gift from God—and that the only real hope for individuals and families is a close relationship with Jesus Christ.
Since we began filming so long ago, we’ve had the amazing honor to share our lives, our faith, and our story with you—including some of the most difficult and painful moments our family has ever faced. We are full of deep gratitude for the love shown to us and the prayers of so many who have sustained us both now and through the years.
We look forward to all the new adventures and endeavors that may come our way, and with so many grown children and wonderful grandchildren, we know our love will only continue to multiply!
We are forever grateful for our film crew and so many others behind the scenes who have become like family to us over the years. The wonderful experiences that filming has provided us will be treasured always, and we look forward to discovering what’s next for our family and sharing more with you along the way!
—Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar
Right before the announcement of Josh Duggar’s federal indictment, he and his wife announced her pregnancy — their daughter is expected in the fall.
