Third Domestic Violence Allegation Emerges Against Reality Star Taylor Frankie Paul
Authorities in Utah are actively investigating a third domestic violence incident involving The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives reality stars Taylor Frankie Paul and Dakota Mortensen, according to recent reports. This latest development follows a series of public controversies that have rocked the television industry.
Police Investigation Details and Jurisdictional Challenges
The West Jordan police department confirmed that Mortensen contacted them last month regarding allegations stemming from a 2024 incident. A spokesperson explained that Draper police directed Mortensen to their jurisdiction due to the location of the alleged event. Investigators are currently reviewing multiple videos to establish precise details and timelines, though they have only Mortensen's account so far and have not yet spoken directly with Paul, having communicated instead with her attorney.
The department emphasized the ongoing nature of the investigation, declining to share further specifics but noting that Paul has been requested to provide a written statement or attend an interview. Representatives for both Paul and Mortensen have declined to comment on the allegations to major news outlets.
Impact on Television Projects and Network Decisions
This new allegation surfaces less than a week after ABC abruptly pulled Paul's upcoming season of The Bachelorette just three days before its scheduled premiere. The decision came immediately after TMZ published leaked footage showing Paul throwing metal chairs at Mortensen during a 2023 altercation, with her daughter present. The network's move highlights the growing scrutiny on reality TV stars and their off-screen conduct.
Paul and Mortensen's tumultuous relationship has been a focal point on Hulu's The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, with the 2023 incident and subsequent arrest addressed during the show's first season. Paul later pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated assault and is currently serving a three-year probation sentence.
Additional Investigations and Legal Proceedings
In a related development, Draper police confirmed last week that there is also a domestic assault investigation tied to another alleged incident between Paul and Mortensen in February of this year. A department spokesperson told People magazine that allegations have been made in both directions, indicating a complex and contentious situation.
Salt Lake County's District Attorney, Sim Gill, has requested all investigative material to screen the most recent allegations for potential charges. Gill noted that any charges filed could be enhanced due to Paul's prior plea in abeyance to a domestic violence offense, underscoring the legal stakes involved.
Production Pauses and Public Statements from Both Sides
Amid these investigations, filming for the fifth season of Mormon Wives has reportedly been paused, adding to the show's uncertain future. A spokesperson for Paul stated last week that she is grateful for ABC's support as she prioritizes her family's safety, claiming she has suffered extensive mental and physical abuse and is now taking steps to protect herself and her children.
In contrast, Mortensen issued a statement to People, describing the situation as deeply upsetting and denying the allegations categorically. He expressed a focus on their son's safety and hoped Paul would do the same, highlighting the personal and legal tensions at play.
This case continues to unfold, with potential implications for reality television standards and domestic violence protocols in the entertainment industry.
