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Taylor Frankie Paul Guilty of Assault; Bachelorette Canceled

3/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

A 2023 video shows Taylor Frankie Paul physically attacking Dakota Mortensen while their daughter was present, with claims the child sustained a goose egg.
Taylor Frankie Paul pleaded guilty to aggravated assault and is on probation.
The Utah Division of Children and Family Services is investigating both Paul and Mortensen.
ABC canceled Paul’s upcoming season of The Bachelorette after the incident.

History

Historical Context

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), enacted in 1994, aimed to combat rising domestic violence in the U.S., with over 1 million incidents reported annually. This landmark legislation established legal protections and funding for victim services. Recent incidents, such as the assault involving Taylor Frankie Paul, highlight ongoing challenges in enforcing these protections and safeguarding vulnerable individuals, particularly children.

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Story summary

A 2023 video shows Taylor Frankie Paul physically attacking Dakota Mortensen while their daughter was present, with claims the child sustained a goose egg.
Taylor Frankie Paul pleaded guilty to aggravated assault and is on probation.
The Utah Division of Children and Family Services is investigating both Paul and Mortensen.
ABC canceled Paul’s upcoming season of The Bachelorette after the incident.

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