Reality television personality Taylor Frankie Paul and Dakota Mortensen have established a shared custody arrangement for their son as the Utah Division of Child and Family Services investigates allegations of child and spousal abuse, according to sources familiar with the situation.
The former couple, both featured on the reality series 'Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,' has maintained no contact for three weeks following a confrontation that allegedly escalated to physical violence. Paul reportedly contacted law enforcement following the incident.
Their son, Ever, turns two years old this week. Sources indicate the custody arrangement involves third-party intermediaries facilitating the transfer of the child between parents, reflecting the significant strain in the relationship between Paul and Mortensen. The parents are reportedly not speaking to one another or conducting custody exchanges directly.
The ongoing investigation by Utah's child welfare agency has not publicly identified which parent is under scrutiny, or whether both individuals are subjects of the inquiry. The Division of Child and Family Services routinely investigates allegations involving the welfare of minors in domestic situations.
Production on the fifth season of 'Secret Lives of Mormon Wives' has been suspended as the legal and investigative matters proceed. Both Paul and Mortensen have been directed to undergo psychological evaluations as part of the process.
Despite the personal turmoil, Paul's professional commitments continue. She is scheduled to appear on ABC's 'The Bachelorette,' with the program set to premiere later this month. The timing of her television appearances alongside the custody proceedings and investigation presents a complex situation for the reality television figure.
The case highlights the intersection of public life and private family matters, particularly as Utah authorities work to ensure the welfare of the child involved. Child and Family Services investigations typically remain confidential to protect the privacy of minors and families under review.
