Kendra Duggar has announced that she will be represented by the Duggar family’s longstanding lawyer, Travis Story, in her upcoming misdemeanor child welfare case in Arkansas. This information came to light during a phone call between Kendra and her husband, Joseph Duggar, shortly after she was released from police custody on March 20.
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Kendra, 27, was arrested by the Tontitown Police Department and charged with four counts of false imprisonment and four counts of endangering the welfare of a child. She was released from the Washington County Detention Facility less than two hours after her booking. In the subsequent phone conversation, Kendra informed Joseph, 31, of her decision to engage Story as her legal representation.
During the call, Joseph initially expressed confusion regarding their legal representation, asking Kendra if Story had contacted her. Kendra confirmed, stating, “I’ve been talking to Travis. I’ve got him as my attorney now.” She clarified that Story will be representing her alone, indicating that they would not be sharing legal representation as the case progresses.
As Joseph attempted to grasp the situation, he remarked, “I wasn’t sure who we settled with, but this guy’s good.” However, Kendra quickly reiterated that Story’s services were solely for her, stating, “It’s not for you, it’s only for me.” She explained that she required legal counsel due to the nature of the ongoing case concerning their children.
Their conversation also touched on Joseph’s circumstances while incarcerated. He had been in custody two days prior to Kendra’s call, where he faced two felony charges of lewd and lascivious behaviour in Florida, as well as the same eight misdemeanor charges as Kendra in Arkansas. The couple is set to appear in court for their first hearing regarding these charges on April 29.
Authorities have indicated that the misdemeanour charges lodged against the Duggar couple in Arkansas are unrelated to the more serious felony charges Joseph is facing in Florida. Following his release from the Washington County Detention Facility on March 27, Joseph is reportedly in the process of being extradited to Bay County in Florida, although his exact whereabouts are currently unclear.
A source associated with law enforcement confirmed to PEOPLE that the situation is unfolding in a significant way, particularly as it involves the welfare of children. Meanwhile, the Duggar family’s spokesperson issued a statement reflecting the family’s distress over the situation, stating that Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar are heartbroken. The family is reportedly focused on providing support to Kendra and her children during this challenging period and is appealing for privacy, while also acknowledging the importance of prayers for the victims involved.
Travis Story is no stranger to representing members of the Duggar family, having represented Kendra’s brother-in-law, Josh Duggar, during his federal trial in 2021. Story’s familiarity with the family may have influenced Kendra’s decision to seek his legal advice.
As the situation develops, the Duggar family continues to be in the public eye, facing considerable scrutiny due to the nature of the charges involved. Many are closely watching the upcoming court proceedings, particularly concerning the implications for the family’s children and their overall wellbeing.
For those who may have experienced similar situations, support is available. The Crisis Text Line can provide assistance by connecting victims with a certified crisis counsellor. To reach out for help, one can text “STRENGTH” to 741741.