Jessa at the time was 22. Although I won’t be defending him against what he did or saying it was okay, permissible, I want to stand up for his rights and defend him from those calling him a child molester, a paternal or sexual abuser, as some are saying. It’s so ridiculous. 

She explained, “In Josh’s situation, he was both a boy and young man in puberty. And he is a bit too curious about women. He got into trouble for it. He made some poor choices but it was mostly mild and inappropriate touching on fully-clothed victims. Most of this happened while the girls were asleep.

Josh made an apology in 2015. “Twelve years ago, as a young teenager, I acted inexcusably for which I am extremely sorry and deeply regret,” he said in a statement to People. “I did it to others including my family members and friends. I told my parents about it and they took several steps for me to address the problem. After I had spoken with authorities, my parents made arrangements for counseling to be provided for myself and the others who were affected by my actions. It was clear to me that this would lead to my death. He wasn’t charged.