'Bachelorette' Star Avoids New Domestic Violence Charges

Prosecutors cite statute of limitations and lack of evidence in declining to file additional charges against Taylor Frankie Paul.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 2:03am

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An abstract close-up image of shattered glass and cracked makeup compact, captured in dramatic, high-contrast studio lighting to evoke a sense of glamour and fragility.The resurfacing of domestic violence allegations against a reality TV star exposes the complex personal struggles and legal challenges faced by those in the public eye.Draper Today

Utah reality star Taylor Frankie Paul will not face new domestic violence charges, according to the Salt Lake County District Attorney's office. Prosecutors claimed the incident happened more than two years ago, placing it outside the statute of limitations, and said there was insufficient evidence to support filing criminal charges. Paul previously pleaded guilty to assaulting her ex-boyfriend Dakota Mortensen in 2023.

Why it matters

The decision not to file new charges against Paul highlights the challenges in prosecuting domestic violence cases, especially when incidents occurred years in the past. It also raises questions about accountability and whether the justice system is doing enough to protect victims of abuse.

The details

According to People, prosecutors said the alleged incident involving Paul and Mortensen happened more than two years ago, placing it outside the statute of limitations. Mortensen had reported to police that Paul had scratched him during an explosive fight in February, while Paul claimed she was not the aggressor. The District Attorney's office noted that any additional domestic violence claims lacked "sufficient evidence to support filing criminal charges." Paul had previously pleaded guilty to assaulting Mortensen in 2023, which meant any new charges would have violated her parole.

  • The alleged incident involving Paul and Mortensen occurred in early to mid-2024.
  • Paul pleaded guilty to assaulting Mortensen in August 2023.
  • The District Attorney's office announced the decision not to file new charges against Paul on April 15, 2026.

The players

Taylor Frankie Paul

A Utah reality star who previously pleaded guilty to assaulting her ex-boyfriend Dakota Mortensen in 2023.

Dakota Mortensen

Paul's ex-boyfriend, who reported to police that Paul had scratched him during an explosive fight in February 2026.

Salt Lake County District Attorney's Office

The prosecutors who decided not to file new domestic violence charges against Taylor Frankie Paul, citing the statute of limitations and lack of sufficient evidence.

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What’s next

The West Jordan Police Department in Utah is still actively investigating a separate domestic violence incident involving Taylor Frankie Paul and Dakota Mortensen that allegedly occurred in 2024. No charges have been filed yet as the investigation remains ongoing.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges in prosecuting domestic violence cases, especially when incidents occurred years in the past. It raises questions about accountability and whether the justice system is doing enough to protect victims of abuse, even in high-profile cases involving public figures.