A third official investigation into allegations of domestic violence against reality television personality Taylor Frankie Paul, made by her former partner Dakota Mortensen, has now been formally initiated. This development marks the latest chapter in a series of legal and personal controversies surrounding the star.
Police Confirm New Allegations
A spokesperson for the West Jordan Police Department in Utah confirmed to NBC News that Mortensen has accused Paul of domestic violence related to an incident reported in 2024. The police representative stated that no further specific details regarding the alleged events are currently available to the public. Representatives for Taylor Frankie Paul were contacted for comment but have been unable to provide a statement at this time.
Media Inquiries Unanswered
The Daily Mail has also actively sought comments from both Dakota Mortensen and the West Jordan Police Department regarding this new investigation. However, the publication did not receive an immediate response from either party, leaving many questions unanswered as the probe progresses.
Background of Previous Cases
This new investigation follows a highly publicized 2023 incident where a shocking video surfaced showing Taylor Frankie Paul, then 31 years old, physically attacking her then-boyfriend Dakota Mortensen, who was 33 at the time. The altercation occurred in the presence of Paul's young daughter, Indy. As a direct consequence of this video's release, Paul's scheduled season of the popular television show The Bachelorette was abruptly canceled just days before its planned premiere.
That initial case had been public knowledge for several years before a second domestic violence investigation was opened earlier this year, focusing on a supposed incident from February. Now, this third investigation underscores the ongoing and escalating nature of the allegations between the former couple.
Restraining Order Granted
In a significant legal move last Friday, Dakota Mortensen was granted a restraining order against Taylor Frankie Paul. In his application, Mortensen characterized Paul as an 'immediate threat' to his personal safety, a claim that the court evidently found credible enough to issue the protective order.
Paul's Response and Allegations
Taylor Frankie Paul, who gained fame through her appearance on Hulu's reality series The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, released a statement following the cancellation of her television show. In that statement, she alleged that she had endured 'extensive mental and physical abuse as well as threats of retaliation' in silence for many years.
Her representative further claimed that 'Taylor is finally gaining the strength to face her accuser and taking steps to ensure that she and her children are protected from any further harm.' The rep added that Paul had remained quiet previously 'out of fear of further abuse, retaliation, and public shaming' and is now actively 'seeking support,' exploring her legal options, and 'preparing to own and share her story.'
Mortensen's Denial
In response to these claims, Dakota Mortensen has issued a firm denial through a statement provided to The Daily Mail. He stated, 'As anyone who has seen the video will understand, this is a deeply upsetting situation. I am, unfortunately, used to these baseless claims about me and our relationship, which I categorically deny.'
Mortensen emphasized his focus on their son's welfare, saying, 'I am focusing on our son and his safety, and hope that Taylor will do the same.' This statement highlights the contentious and deeply personal nature of the allegations, with both parties presenting conflicting narratives about their relationship and the incidents in question.
The situation remains fluid as the third police investigation proceeds, with potential implications for both individuals' personal lives and public careers. The legal outcomes and further statements from either side are awaited with considerable public and media interest.
