Josh Duggar’s Trial: Bobye Holt’s Testimony Outlines ‘Plans’ for Josh to Marry as a Teen
Duggar family followers have long suspected that some marriages inside the Duggar family’s ultra-conservative Christian ministry are strongly encouraged and, in some cases, even arranged by the parents. For years, rumors have swirled that several Duggar kids had their marriages set up by their father, Jim Bob Duggar, although confirmation has been slow to come. Bobye Holt’s testimony at Josh Duggar’s trial has brought Duggar critics as close to proof of parental meddling that they’ll likely ever get.
Bobye Holt testified on several incidents of sexual abuse that took place inside the Duggar home
Duggar family critics didn’t initially count on the Holt family name appearing on the witness list. In the end, the prosecution called both Bobye and her husband to testify. Holt, married to Jim Holt, has a long history with the Duggar family. The two families were incredibly close when the Duggar family first landed their reality TV show. Jim Holt and Jim Bob Duggar were childhood friends. The Holts, however, have not been mentioned by the Duggars in some time.
Still, Bobye Holt took the stand to testify about a series of molestation incidents inside the Duggar family’s home. Josh was the perpetrator. According to court documents, Josh confessed to Bobye Holt that he had touched several of his younger sisters inappropriately. Bobye said the incidents happened in 2002 and 2003. InTouch broke the molestation scandal in 2015.
The Duggar family friend revealed that there were “plans” for Josh Duggar to marry her daughter
Holt’s emotional testimony was dotted by snippets of information that, while not particularly relevant to the trial, certainly interested Duggar family followers. Holt revealed that her daughter and Josh courted as teens during an evidentiary hearing held the day before jury selection. The statement gave followers proof that Josh did have a failed courtship before marrying Anna Duggar. Rumors had swirled about the courtship for years.
Bobye Holt further elaborated on Josh’s relationship with her daughter during today’s testimony. Holt revealed that Josh and her eldest daughter dated when they were around 14 years old. She went on to say that the “plan” was for the duo to get married. Critics were struck by Holt’s choice of words. A planned marriage seems strange, especially when you consider the duo’s age at the time. Some critics think Holt’s comments confirm that the parents in their social circle set up some marriages. Holt did not state that the parents arrange marriages, though.
Holt went on to say that the pair broke up after Josh confessed his actions to Bobye and her husband, Jim Holt. From her statement, Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar promoted the breakup. Legal expert and YouTuber, Emily D. Baker questioned the nature of the relationship in a recent video, as well.
Now that Bobye Holt has testified, will the prosecution call Jill Dillard?
Several days ago, the federal judge presiding over Josh Duggar’s trial read a lengthy list of witnesses. Amid the names of family friends, cellmates, former employers, and several employees, two Duggar family members were listed. Both Jedidiah Duggar, 22, and Jill Duggar, 30, were listed as witnesses. Thus far, neither has testified. Duggar family followers largely believe that the defense plans to call Jedidiah.
The hope that Jill will be testifying for the prosecution is fading fast. While the prosecution could get a chance to call more witnesses, it seems like the prosecution might think they have a strong enough case with the witnesses that have already taken the stand, including the Holts. Family followers will not know for sure if Jill will testify until both the prosecution and the defense rest.
How to get help: If you or someone you know has been sexually abused, text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741 for free and confidential support.
