The Draper City Police Department has released a new 911 call as part of their investigation into the domestic violence allegations involving reality TV star Taylor Frankie Paul and her ex-partner Dakota Mortensen. The call, made on 23 February 2023, has elicited further public interest in a case that has already seen significant media coverage.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Taylor-Frankie-Paul-Dakota-Mortensen-031826-5a2b34d6f3734f208c8863b5ab88d619.jpg)
A friend of Mortensen reached out to emergency services, stating that Mortensen displayed visible injuries, specifically scratches on his neck. The caller indicated that Mortensen had been reluctant to disclose details about the incidents that led to his injuries. “He’s been trying to protect her, essentially because he doesn’t want her to get in trouble — but it’s going on too long and too far,” the friend told the 911 operator. This alarming statement hints at a troubling dynamic between the former couple.

During the course of the investigation, both Paul and Mortensen alleged that the other had exhibited violent behaviour. They each provided photographic evidence of injuries purportedly sustained during their altercations, as well as text messages reflecting their tumultuous interactions. However, following a review of the evidence, both the Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office and the Draper City Prosecutor decided not to pursue charges against Paul, citing insufficient evidence to substantiate the claims beyond a reasonable doubt.

Simultaneously, the West Jordan Police Department also initiated an inquiry into the allegations involving the pair. A spokesperson revealed that Mortensen had made contact with law enforcement at the end of February and subsequently spoke to them again in March as part of their ongoing investigation. Among the evidence submitted to police, Mortensen provided a video dated to “early-to-mid 2024,” though further specifics regarding this video have not been disclosed at this time.
In the wake of these investigations, Mortensen sought a protective order against Paul on 19 March. In turn, Paul filed her own protective order against Mortensen on 7 April, accusing him of a “pattern of abusive conduct and coercive control” during their relationship. This request included accounts of various incidents where he allegedly acted violently towards her. During a court hearing that took place on 7 April, custody of their two-year-old son, Ever, was granted to Mortensen, with Paul allowed supervised visitation of up to eight hours per week.
The controversy surrounding their relationship intensified when details emerged about a previous arrest involving Paul in 2023. The alleged incident involved her throwing metal chairs at Mortensen while a child was present. Following the release of a video documenting the altercation, there was significant media backlash. In light of this, the ABC network pulled Paul’s appearance from an upcoming season of The Bachelorette, which had already been filmed.
A spokesperson for Paul expressed gratitude towards ABC for their support during this challenging time, noting, “After years of silently suffering extensive mental and physical abuse, Taylor is finally gaining the strength to face her accuser.” The statement further elaborated on the struggles faced by women in similar circumstances, indicating that Paul is now actively seeking support and preparing to share her story.
Mortensen responded to the accusations, stating that he categorically denies the claims made against him. He went on to emphasise the importance of focusing on their son’s safety amid the public turmoil. “As anyone who has seen the video will understand, this is a deeply upsetting situation,” Mortensen stated.
In the midst of these developments, sources divulged that filming for Mormon Wives has been halted as cast members reportedly refused to work with Paul following the surfacing of these issues. It remains uncertain how this will affect the show’s future.
For individuals who may find themselves in situations involving domestic violence, resources are available. The National Domestic Violence Hotline offers confidential support and can be reached at 1-800-799-7233, providing assistance 24/7 in over 170 languages.
