Show summary Hide summary
- Judge grants temporary custody amid restraining order
- Police investigation in Draper City is ongoing
- How a released video triggered legal and media fallout
- Criminal history tied to the earlier incident
- Statements from both sides as the case unfolds
- Reality TV impact: ABC pauses a planned appearance
- Timeline of the controversy
- Support resources for those affected by domestic violence
Taylor Frankie Paul has lost temporary custody of her young son after her ex, Dakota Mortensen, obtained a protection order this week. The move follows the release of a disturbing video and an active police inquiry that has forced production delays for a reality show and prompted swift legal action.
Judge grants temporary custody amid restraining order
A court approved a temporary custody arrangement on Friday as part of the protective order Mortensen filed. The order bars both parents from spending time with the child until a hearing can be held.
Spirit elite status: claim a status match from these airlines now
John Cena teases history-making WWE Backlash role
- Next court date: April 7, when Paul can address the allegations.
- Parenting restrictions: No parent time is allowed until the hearing.
- Child named in filings: Ever, the couple’s toddler.
Police investigation in Draper City is ongoing
Local law enforcement confirmed contacts with both parties after reported incidents in late February. Authorities say allegations have been made by both sides.
What officials disclosed
- Draper City Police responded to calls on Feb. 24 and 25.
- Investigators continue to review claims raised by each person.
- Details remain limited while the inquiry proceeds.
How a released video triggered legal and media fallout
A video from 2023 that recently surfaced shows a physical confrontation between Paul and Mortensen. The footage led Mortensen to request court protection and intensified public attention.
- The clip reportedly shows Paul placing Mortensen in a chokehold.
- Chairs were thrown during the incident, and a child is heard crying.
- Mortensen alleges his daughter Indy, age 8, was struck by a metal chair.
Criminal history tied to the earlier incident
Following the recorded altercation, Paul faced multiple charges. She entered a guilty plea to one serious count, and other charges were dismissed.
- Aggravated assault — pleaded guilty.
- Two counts of domestic violence in the presence of a child — later dropped.
- Misdemeanor counts including child abuse and criminal mischief — dropped.
Statements from both sides as the case unfolds
Representatives for Paul criticized the way the video was presented. They say it was edited and aimed to damage her reputation. They also accused Mortensen of a campaign of public manipulation.
Mortensen issued a public denial of other claims against him. He told media outlets he focuses on protecting their son and rejects what he calls baseless accusations.
Each side has framed the situation very differently, and legal proceedings will determine the next steps.
Reality TV impact: ABC pauses a planned appearance
Paul had been slated to appear on the new season of The Bachelorette. Network executives shelved the installment after the recent developments.
Her team said she is grateful for the network’s support while she prioritizes family safety. They also allege she endured years of abuse and is now taking legal steps to protect herself and her children.
Timeline of the controversy
- 2023: An on-camera domestic altercation occurs and led to arrests and charges.
- Recent weeks: A video from that incident is released publicly.
- Late February: Police contact both parties during an investigation.
- Thursday: Mortensen files for an order of protection.
- Friday: Court grants temporary custody to Mortensen and restricts parent time.
- April 7: Scheduled court hearing where both parents may speak.
Support resources for those affected by domestic violence
If you or someone you know faces domestic abuse, help is available. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text START to 88788 for immediate support.
