Reality Star Taylor Frankie Paul Avoids Domestic Violence Charges

Prosecutors decline to file charges after reviewing alleged incidents with ex-boyfriend

Apr. 15, 2026 at 4:23am

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An abstract, high-contrast close-up image featuring shattered glass and cracked, distressed leather textures, conveying a sense of emotional turmoil and the fragility of fame.The personal drama surrounding reality star Taylor Frankie Paul exposes the darker side of celebrity life.West Jordan Today

Reality TV personality Taylor Frankie Paul will not face criminal charges related to alleged domestic violence incidents with her ex-boyfriend Dakota Mortensen, the Salt Lake County district attorney's office announced. Prosecutors said they reviewed reports and evidence submitted to police but found insufficient evidence to support filing charges, with some incidents barred by the statute of limitations.

Why it matters

The high-profile case involving the 'Secret Lives of Mormon Wives' star had prompted ABC to pull her from the upcoming season of 'The Bachelorette' after a leaked video of a 2023 domestic dispute surfaced online. The decision not to charge Paul raises questions about domestic violence reporting and prosecution, especially for public figures.

The details

According to authorities, Mortensen reported several alleged domestic violence incidents, some dating back more than three years. However, prosecutors said misdemeanor offenses older than two years are barred by the statute of limitations, and the remaining incidents did not rise to the level of criminal offenses or lack sufficient evidence. Paul had previously pleaded guilty in abeyance to aggravated assault over a 2023 incident that was featured on her reality show.

  • In February 2026, Mortensen filed a report with West Jordan Police alleging a domestic violence incident earlier that year.
  • In 2023, Paul was arrested and pleaded guilty in abeyance to aggravated assault over a domestic dispute incident.
  • Days before the March 2026 premiere of 'The Bachelorette', a leaked video of the 2023 domestic dispute between Paul and Mortensen surfaced online.

The players

Taylor Frankie Paul

A reality TV personality known for the show 'Secret Lives of Mormon Wives', who was set to star in the upcoming season of 'The Bachelorette' before the domestic violence allegations surfaced.

Dakota Mortensen

Paul's ex-boyfriend and the father of her youngest child, who reported several alleged domestic violence incidents involving Paul.

Salt Lake County District Attorney's Office

The prosecutors who reviewed the domestic violence allegations against Paul and ultimately declined to file criminal charges.

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What they’re saying

“After reviewing reports and evidence submitted to the Draper Police Department and West Jordan Police Department, the Salt Lake County District Attorney's Office has declined to file charges against Taylor Frankie Paul.”

— Salt Lake County District Attorney's Office

What’s next

A Utah judge has ordered Paul and Mortensen to appear remotely at a court hearing on April 30 to review the merits of Mortensen's protective order against Paul. Paul has also filed her own protective order against Mortensen, which was recently granted.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complexities and challenges around domestic violence allegations, especially when they involve public figures. The decision not to file charges raises questions about the standards of evidence required and the impact on victims, while also underscoring the need for a deeper societal examination of intimate partner abuse.