By Trend News Line 2024-04-01 20:37:52.
Leader of Polygamous Sect Pleads Guilty to Trafficking Underage Girls Across State Lines
In a shocking turn of events, Samuel Bateman, the leader of a polygamous sect near the Arizona-Utah border, has pleaded guilty to conspiring to transport underage girls across state lines for sexual acts. This disturbing revelation has shed light on a yearslong scheme orchestrated by Bateman to engage in sexual activities involving children.
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Details of the Guilty Plea
During a hearing at U.S. District Court in Phoenix, Bateman admitted to taking underage brides, engaging in sexual activity with them, and arranging group sex, sometimes involving child brides. The plea agreement recommends a sentence of 20 to 50 years in prison, with the possibility of a maximum sentence of life in prison for one of his convictions.
The Sprawling Network of the Sect
Authorities revealed that Bateman, a self-proclaimed prophet with over 20 wives, including 10 girls under 18, had established a network spanning at least four states in an attempt to start an offshoot of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. This sect practices polygamy, a belief that they claim brings exaltation in heaven.
Arrest and Discovery of Underage Girls
Bateman’s heinous activities came to light when he was arrested by Arizona state police in Flagstaff after three girls, aged between 11 and 14, were found in an enclosed trailer. The trailer lacked proper ventilation and contained makeshift living arrangements, leading to his initial arrest in August 2022.
Subsequent Arrests and Rescues
Despite posting bond, Bateman was arrested again the following month for obstructing justice in a federal investigation. Nine children were removed from his home in Colorado City and placed in foster care, with eight of them later escaping and being found in Washington state. Bateman’s adult wives allegedly played a role in helping the children escape.
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Ongoing Legal Proceedings
Bateman is the second man to be convicted in this disturbing scheme, with others facing charges related to transporting underage girls for sexual activities. The FBI uncovered recordings of sexual acts involving Bateman and minor girls, as well as instances of coercion and manipulation within the sect.
Impact on Followers and Legal Consequences
Bateman’s followers were reportedly pressured to confess and participate in sexual activities as a form of punishment, allegedly at the instruction of the “Heavenly Father.” Several of his wives and followers have already pleaded guilty to various charges, with sentencing for Bateman scheduled for July 15.
In conclusion, the guilty plea from Samuel Bateman has brought to light the dark realities of his polygamous sect and the heinous crimes committed against underage girls. The legal proceedings and investigations surrounding this case continue to unfold, uncovering the disturbing extent of the exploitation and abuse within the sect..
1. Polygamous sect leader pleads guilty in scheme to orchestrate sexual acts involving children
2. Polygamous sect leader pleads guilty in scheme involving sexual acts with children.
