A gripping new true crime documentary series on Netflix has captivated audiences, with many viewers reporting they binge-watched the entire programme in a single sitting. Trust Me: The False Prophet launched on the streaming platform on Wednesday, April 8, and has quickly become a topic of intense discussion among fans of the genre.
Unprecedented Access to a Troubled Community
The four-part series follows cult psychology expert Julia and her videographer husband as they embed themselves within a vulnerable FLDS community in Short Creek, Utah. Their mission is to assist the community, but they soon uncover disturbing evidence about Samuel Bateman, who claims to be the successor to imprisoned prophet Warren Jeffs.
Warren Jeffs, the former leader of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS), was found guilty of child sexual assault in 2011 and sentenced to life imprisonment. Following his incarceration, Samuel Bateman assumed control of the breakaway Mormon sect.
Samuel Bateman's Crimes and Capture
Bateman, a former regular FLDS member, proclaimed himself a prophet and advocated for polygamy, the practice of having multiple wives simultaneously. He reportedly had more than 20 wives, with almost half being underage girls as young as nine years old.
His downfall began when he confessed his offences to a new neighbour, leading to an FBI raid and his subsequent arrest. While behind bars, Bateman attempted to abduct eight minors, though fortunately, the girls were located and rehomed in different foster families.
In December 2024, Bateman received a 50-year prison sentence for conspiracy to commit transportation of a minor for criminal sexual activity and conspiracy to commit kidnapping.
Viewer Reactions and Praise for the Documentary
Audiences have flocked to online platforms like Reddit to share their thoughts on Trust Me: The False Prophet. Many praised the documentary for its rare and gripping firsthand footage, which provides an unprecedented look into cult dynamics.
One viewer commented, "To have that much firsthand footage in cults and sects like these is so rare. I found it fascinating, thought that couple was ballsy and so good at feeding them exactly what they wanted to hear to gain their trust... and of course found Bateman sickening."
Another added, "Just finished watching it all and I really couldn't fathom how much evidence law enforcement required to make an arrest." A third viewer expressed admiration for Julia's courage, while a fourth shared their heartbreak for the women and girls affected by Bateman's actions.
The series has been highlighted as a must-watch for true crime enthusiasts, with its compelling narrative and shocking revelations keeping viewers glued to their screens from start to finish.
