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Full Breakdown

Domestic Violence Allegations Surround Taylor Frankie Paul

3/28/2026, 5:44:27 AM

Overview of the Incident

Taylor Frankie Paul, a reality TV star known for her role in "The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives," has faced renewed scrutiny following a leaked video from a 2023 incident where she allegedly threw chairs and yelled at her ex-boyfriend, Dakota Mortensen, while her daughter was present. The altercation led to her arrest on February 17, 2023, for domestic violence, resulting in misdemeanor charges of assault, criminal mischief, and domestic violence in the presence of a child. Paul later pled guilty in abeyance to aggravated assault, with the possibility of her charge being lessened or dismissed if she complies with the plea conditions.

Allegations of Coaching and Custody Issues

In the aftermath of the incident, Taylor's ex-husband, Tate Paul, claimed during a police call that Taylor's mother, Liann May, was "coaching" their daughter regarding the events surrounding the altercation. Tate expressed concerns about a "conflict of interest" due to May's relationship with Taylor. Following their divorce in 2022, Tate and Taylor were awarded joint legal and physical custody of their children. Tate reported that their daughter sustained a minor head injury during the incident, described as a "goose egg."

Ongoing Investigations and Protective Orders

As of February 2026, two police departments in Utah have initiated domestic assault investigations involving Taylor and Mortensen, with allegations reportedly made in both directions. Mortensen filed for a protective order against Taylor on March 19, 2026, and a hearing is scheduled for April 7. The Draper City Police Department confirmed an open investigation, while the West Jordan Police Department reported another active case involving video evidence submitted by Mortensen.

Official Statements & Responses

Following the release of the video, a spokesperson for Taylor stated that the footage "conveniently omits context" and characterized its release as a "reprehensible attempt" by Mortensen to distract from his own behavior. Mortensen responded by emphasizing the distressing nature of the situation and denying any baseless claims against him. He expressed a focus on their son's safety amid the ongoing turmoil.

Criticism & Opposition

A source close to Taylor alleged that Mortensen has a pattern of provoking her and filming her reactions, claiming that the videos misrepresent the situation by omitting his actions that led to her responses. This perspective highlights the contentious nature of their relationship and the complexities surrounding the allegations of domestic violence.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “ "After years of silently suffering extensive mental and physical abuse as well as threats of retaliation, 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 spokesperson continued.” — Spokesperson for Taylor Frankie Paul
  • “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. I am focusing on our son and his safety, and hope that Taylor will do the same.” — Dakota Mortensen

The situation remains fluid, with ongoing investigations and legal proceedings that may further impact the lives of those involved.