From Viral Scandal to Public Fallout
Paul first gained widespread attention in May 2022 after revealing on TikTok that her marriage to Tate Paul had ended following participation in a so-called “soft-swinging” arrangement among a group of Mormon influencers known as “MomTok.”
The group allegedly agreed to engage in intimate activities with other couples under strict boundaries—namely, that spouses had to be present and no one would have full sexual relations. Paul later admitted to violating those boundaries by engaging in a private affair with another member’s husband.
The revelation led to her divorce, fractured friendships within the influencer group, and eventually inspired the Hulu reality series The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.
2023 Arrest and Criminal Case
In February 2023, Paul’s personal life took a more serious turn when she was arrested in Utah following a violent altercation with her then-boyfriend, Dakota Mortensen.
Police reports stated that Paul threw metal chairs and a wooden playset during the incident, with one object striking her young daughter. She was initially charged with multiple offenses, including felony aggravated assault, domestic violence in the presence of a child, and child abuse.
In August 2023, Paul accepted a plea deal. She pleaded guilty to aggravated assault, while other charges were dropped. She was sentenced to 36 months of probation, ordered to undergo evaluations, and served a short jail sentence equivalent to time already spent in custody.
New Allegations and Renewed Investigation in 2026
The situation escalated again in February 2026 when authorities in Draper, Utah, opened a new investigation into domestic assault allegations involving both Paul and Mortensen. Officials confirmed that accusations were made “in both directions” following incidents reported on February 24 and 25.
Because Paul is still on probation from her 2023 case, any new charges could result in a violation that carries potential jail time.
Custody Battle and Emergency Court Order
The legal conflict intensified this week after Mortensen filed for a protective order and sought full custody of their two-year-old son, Ever. He alleged Paul was “emotionally volatile” and posed a safety risk.
On March 21, 2026, a Utah judge granted Mortensen temporary emergency custody. The order prohibits Paul from contacting her son and requires her to remain at least 100 feet away from Mortensen until further hearings.
A court date has been set for April 7, when both parties are expected to present their cases.
Separately, Tate Paul has also reportedly filed for a restraining order and is seeking changes to custody arrangements involving their two older children.
Leaked Video Sparks Industry Shock
The legal developments coincided with the release of previously unseen footage from the 2023 incident. The video, published by TMZ on March 19, shows Paul appearing intoxicated while engaging in violent behavior, including throwing objects and striking Mortensen as a child cries nearby.
The footage quickly spread online, intensifying public scrutiny and prompting swift action from television executives.
‘The Bachelorette’ Cancelled Days Before Premiere
In an unprecedented move, ABC canceled Season 22 of The Bachelorette just three days before its scheduled March 22 premiere. The season had already been fully filmed with Paul as the lead.
In a statement, Disney/ABC said the network would not move forward with the show and would instead focus on “supporting the family.”
The decision marks one of the most abrupt cancellations in the franchise’s history.
Production Halted on Hulu Series
Production on The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives has also been suspended indefinitely. Reports indicate that several cast members expressed concerns prior to the public fallout.
Cast member Mikayla Matthews stated the decision to pause filming was mutual among the group, citing discomfort with the ongoing situation. Others, including Mayci Neeley, voiced concerns about Paul’s readiness to continue filming amid the legal turmoil.
Some cast members have distanced themselves entirely, with reports suggesting internal divisions over whether Paul should remain part of the group.
Conflicting Claims From Both Sides
Mortensen has stated that his primary concern is the safety of their child, while also claiming he did not intend for the video to become public.
Meanwhile, Paul’s representatives have pushed back, alleging she has been the victim of long-term emotional and physical abuse and is now preparing to address those claims legally.
What Happens Next
The coming weeks will be critical. The April 7 court hearing will determine whether the current custody arrangement remains in place or is modified. Investigators are also continuing to examine the February 2026 allegations.
With multiple legal cases unfolding, halted productions, and damaged public image, Paul’s future in both court and entertainment remains uncertain.
What began as a viral social media confession has now evolved into a complex and high-stakes legal and media crisis—one that continues to develop rapidly.
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