Dakota Mortensen Breaks Silence on Domestic Assault Investigation with Ex Taylor Frankie Paul

An ongoing domestic assault investigation involving reality television personalities Dakota Mortensen and Taylor Frankie Paul has garnered significant attention in recent days. The Draper City Police Department in Utah confirmed that allegations have been made in both directions, leading to an active investigation involving the former couple, who share a one-year-old son, Ever.

Mortensen’s representatives spoke to Entertainment Weekly, insisting that his primary focus remains the welfare of their child. The spokesperson clarified that Mortensen did not instigate any public revelation of the investigation, stating he endeavours to maintain a positive co-parenting relationship with Paul, despite their challenges. “It’s been really hard to achieve that, but he wants to co-parent well,” the representative emphasised.

The police department’s statement on March 16 revealed that contact was made with the individuals involved during incidents that occurred on February 24 and 25. However, further details about the investigation were not disclosed to protect the integrity of the process.

In the wake of the unfolding situation, Taylor Frankie Paul, who is set to appear in the upcoming season of *The Bachelorette*, has publicly addressed the matter multiple times. During a press preview on March 17, she expressed her dismay at the circumstances, describing it as “a heavy time” and “unfortunate.” She confirmed that she and Mortensen currently have no direct communication and have opted to engage a third party for child pick-up and drop-off arrangements. This decision, she indicated, was made after she “took action a few weeks ago.”

Paul further elaborated on her feelings during an appearance on *Good Morning America*. In her first televised interview since the investigation announcement, she reflected on the impact of the headlines during what is intended to be an exciting period in her career. “Honestly, it’s been a heavy time to see the headlines,” she remarked, emphasising her commitment to speak her truth when the time feels appropriate.

Sources close to Paul have denied suggestions that she displayed violent behaviour during the February incidents, stating that her focus remains on the upcoming premiere of *The Bachelorette*. Meanwhile, representatives for both Paul and the networks involved, including ABC and Hulu, have yet to comment on the investigation.

This latest investigation follows a previous arrest in 2023, when Paul faced charges related to an incident involving Mortensen, which included allegations of throwing a chair in a domestic dispute. Ultimately, she pled guilty in abeyance to aggravated assault, and other related charges were dismissed, conditional upon compliance with the court’s requirements.

Concerns for Paul’s wellbeing have arisen among her friends, with an insider reporting that she frequently contacts Mortensen late at night. “We’re all worried for Taylor’s well-being,” the source remarked, indicating a desire for her to seek help during this tumultuous time.

In light of the investigation, filming for the fifth season of Paul’s show, *Secret Lives of Mormon Wives*, has been put on hold. Fellow cast members are reportedly reluctant to associate with her, contributing to a tense atmosphere among the production team. “None of the women want to be associated with her,” a source revealed, while others indicated that the cast members are feeling overwhelmed by the situation.

Paul confirmed her awareness of the filming hiatus during her interview on GMA, expressing uncertainty about the duration and reasons behind it, stating, “I do not call those shots.”

As the investigation continues to unfold, the interests of their son remain at the forefront for both parents. The situation serves as a reminder of the complex dynamics often present in public relationships, especially when children are involved. For those affected by domestic violence, resources are available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline, which offers confidential support 24/7.