By Trend News Line 2024-04-02 18:01:47.
Leader of Polygamous Sect Pleads Guilty to Transporting Underage Girls Across State Lines
In a shocking turn of events, the leader of an offshoot polygamous sect near the Arizona-Utah border, Samuel Bateman, has pleaded guilty to conspiring to transport underage girls across state lines. This disturbing revelation sheds light on a yearslong scheme orchestrated by Bateman to engage in sexual acts involving children.
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Guilty Plea and Recommended Sentencing
Bateman, 48, entered his guilty plea on Monday in U.S. District Court in Phoenix. He admitted to taking underage brides, engaging in sexual activity with them, and arranging group sex, sometimes involving child brides. His plea agreement recommends a sentence of 20 to 50 years in prison, with one of his convictions carrying a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
Creation of a Polygamous Network
Authorities revealed that Bateman, a self-proclaimed prophet who had taken more than 20 wives, including 10 girls under the age of 18, had created a sprawling network spanning at least four states. His goal was to establish an offshoot of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, a community historically based in Colorado City, Arizona, and Hildale, Utah.
Arrest and Investigation
Bateman’s arrest in August 2022 by Arizona state police in Flagstaff came after three girls, aged between 11 and 14, were found in an enclosed trailer without proper ventilation. Subsequent investigations uncovered a disturbing pattern of child trafficking and sexual exploitation orchestrated by Bateman and his followers.
Multiple Arrests and Charges
Following his initial arrest, Bateman was charged with obstructing justice in a federal investigation into child trafficking. Additional charges were brought against other members of the polygamous sect, including Bateman’s wives and male followers, all accused of participating in the scheme.
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Sentencing and Justice
As the legal proceedings unfold, sentencing for Bateman is scheduled for July 15. The case has shed light on the dark underbelly of polygamous sects and the devastating impact of child exploitation and abuse. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding the rights and well-being of vulnerable individuals, particularly children, in society..
Polygamous leader pleads guilty scheme involving children sex acts
Polygamous leader pleads guilty children sex acts.
