Full Breakdown
Taylor Frankie Paul Files Protective Order Against Dakota Mortensen Amid Domestic Violence Allegations
4/8/2026, 8:04:47 AM
Allegations of Abuse and Coercive Control
Taylor Frankie Paul, a reality television star known for her role in "The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives," has filed for a protective order against her ex-boyfriend Dakota Mortensen, alleging a pattern of abusive conduct and coercive control. In her declaration submitted to a Utah court on April 7, 2026, Paul detailed multiple incidents of alleged domestic violence, including physical assault, harassment, and stalking. She described a particularly alarming incident on February 23, 2026, where Mortensen allegedly drove her away from her home against her will and assaulted her by slamming her head against the dashboard of his truck, resulting in visible bruises.
Paul's filing outlines four specific incidents of abuse, including one where Mortensen allegedly kicked her during a verbal argument in May 2025. She characterized Mortensen's behavior as increasingly possessive, noting that he had tattooed her initials on his body and sent her unsolicited messages expressing his feelings after their relationship had ended. Paul expressed fear for her safety, stating, "I desperately need protection from Dakota or else his abuse, both physical and emotional, will continue."
Legal Proceedings and Custody Issues
The legal battle between Paul and Mortensen has escalated, with both parties filing protective orders against each other. Mortensen was granted temporary custody of their two-year-old son, Ever, following his own protective order filing on March 19, 2026. During a court hearing on April 7, the judge expressed concerns regarding both parties and ordered supervised visitation for Paul, allowing her up to eight hours per week with her son.
Both the Draper and West Jordan police departments are currently investigating allegations of domestic violence involving the couple. Reports indicate that both parties have made claims against each other, complicating the legal proceedings. Mortensen's legal team has not publicly commented on the allegations made by Paul.
Impact on Careers and Public Perception
The allegations and subsequent legal actions have had significant repercussions for both Paul and Mortensen. Following the release of a video showing a 2023 altercation between the two, ABC canceled Paul's season of "The Bachelorette," which was set to premiere shortly after the video's release. Paul has pleaded guilty to a charge of aggravated assault related to that incident, while other charges were dismissed.
In her declaration, Paul accused Mortensen of attempting to sabotage her career through his legal actions, stating, "Dakota has been the primary aggressor and has been violent and abusive toward me." She emphasized her desire to move forward and protect her family from further harm.
Conflicting Reports and Ongoing Investigations
The ongoing investigations into the couple's domestic violence claims have revealed conflicting reports. While Paul alleges a pattern of abuse by Mortensen, he has also accused her of aggressive behavior. The police have confirmed that they are reviewing allegations from both sides, and the situation remains fluid as new evidence may emerge.
As the legal proceedings continue, both parties are expected to present their cases in court, with a full hearing scheduled for April 30, 2026. The outcome of these proceedings will likely have lasting implications for their custody arrangements and public images.
