A domestic violence investigation involving reality television personalities has reached a critical juncture as the Draper Police Department has completed its review and submitted the case to the Salt Lake County District Attorney's office for charging decisions.
Chief Rich Ferguson of the Draper Police Department announced on Thursday, March 26, that following a thorough investigation, the city prosecutor reviewed the case and conducted additional interviews before submitting an evaluation to the district attorney's office for screening.
The investigation centers on alleged domestic disputes between Taylor Frankie Paul, 31, and her former partner Dakota Mortensen, 33, which reportedly occurred on February 25 and February 26. The former couple shares a two-year-old son named Ever.
According to Chief Ferguson's statement, the district attorney's office will now determine whether criminal charges will be filed in the matter. Should the district attorney decline to pursue charges, the city prosecutor retains the authority to evaluate further action based on that determination.
Ferguson indicated that once a final determination has been made regarding potential charges, Draper City will release all public information related to the investigation.
The February incidents represent one of three separate domestic violence allegations involving Paul and Mortensen that have emerged in recent weeks. Authorities confirmed in March that allegations have been made in both directions between the former partners, and that contact was made with involved parties during the investigation.
The investigation prompted a halt in production of the fifth season of a streaming television program on which both individuals have appeared since its first season. News of the February dispute first broke on March 16.
The current investigation has drawn additional scrutiny due to Paul's previous legal history. She was arrested following a 2023 domestic dispute and subsequently pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated assault as part of a plea agreement that dismissed remaining charges. That case placed her on probationary status.
Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill addressed the potential implications of new allegations during an individual's probationary period in a statement released Wednesday, March 25. Gill noted that his office maintains interest in any subsequent allegations of criminal conduct occurring during probation and would screen any conduct that rises to the level of a violation if presented for review.
A third alleged domestic abuse incident was also reported to the West Jordan Police Department in February, according to reports. That incident allegedly occurred in 2024 and falls under West Jordan's jurisdiction.
In late March, Mortensen was granted both a temporary restraining order against Paul and temporary custody of their son. The custody arrangement was confirmed on Friday, March 20.
Through a representative, Paul has stated that she is prioritizing her family's safety and security. The statement indicated she is exploring all available options, seeking support, and preparing to share her account of events. Paul is also the mother of two additional children from a previous marriage.
Mortensen, through his own statement, has categorically denied what he characterized as baseless claims and stated his focus remains on his son's safety.
The timeline for the district attorney's charging decision has not been publicly disclosed. The Draper Police Department has not provided additional comment beyond Chief Ferguson's official statement.
Individuals experiencing domestic violence can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 for confidential support and resources.