Newly released bodycam footage shows Taylor Frankie Paul sobbing and challenging police officers during domestic violence arrest in Utah

Newly released police body-worn camera footage from 2023 is giving the public a closer look at the chaotic night that led to the arrest of reality star Taylor Frankie Paul.

The 27-year-old, known from Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, is seen visibly intoxicated and arguing with law enforcement while attempting to involve her father in the situation.

The video, obtained by TMZ, captures moments shortly before her arrest after she admitted to throwing metal chairs at her then-boyfriend, Dakota Mortensen, an incident that endangered her young daughter.

Porch Confrontation Turns Emotional

The footage begins with Paul on her front porch, visibly frustrated that she’s outside while Mortensen speaks with officers inside her home.

She slurs her words as she demands, “Bring him out here and me inside. This is my house.”

Officers attempt to de-escalate the situation calmly, suggesting that stepping outside for some fresh air might help.

Paul ignores their guidance, interrupts conversations inside, and engages in a tense back-and-forth with Mortensen and the officers.

Calls for Help and Rising Tensions

During the confrontation, Paul reaches for her phone and calls her father for support, tearfully explaining that Mortensen “pushed me in my garage.”

The officers repeatedly remind her to keep her voice down, as her children are nearby, but she continues to argue and challenge their authority.

She questions the officer on the legality of her actions and maintains that her intoxication is minimal, despite evidence to the contrary.

At one point, she invites the officer to test her with a breathalyzer, claiming she had a “safe driver” that night.

Inside the House: Escalation and Accusations

Once inside, Paul confronts Mortensen, repeating accusations about being pushed and asserting that she was in pain.

She refuses medical assistance offered by the officers and questions whether yelling or being upset is a crime.

The officer explains multiple times that his goal is to help her calm down, but Paul interprets the interaction as biased.

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She continues to cry and references her children, emphasizing that she wants Mortensen to leave.

The Arrest and Aftermath

Paul’s erratic behavior culminated in her arrest on February 17, 2023, at her Herriman, Utah home.

Initially charged with misdemeanors, the situation escalated when Mortensen shared video evidence showing a chair striking their five-year-old daughter, Indy.

Charges were upgraded to felony aggravated assault, reckless child abuse, and domestic violence in the presence of a child.

Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office later filed multiple charges, including third-degree felony domestic violence and misdemeanor child abuse.

If convicted, Paul faces up to five years in state prison for each felony charge. She is scheduled to appear in court on April 14.

Background on Taylor Frankie Paul

Paul gained fame through TikTok, amassing over 4 million followers by sharing personal content about her life, children, and now-estranged husband, Tate.

The star publicly revealed last year that she and Tate were divorcing after engaging in a “soft swinging” experience.

Following her split, she began dating Mortensen, who described her as struggling with personal issues, especially when alcohol was involved.

Police reports indicate that the incident stemmed from a girls’ night out and a disagreement over attending a concert, which escalated into property damage and physical confrontations.

Impact and Consequences

The release of this footage has raised questions about celebrity accountability, domestic violence, and the role of social media in private conflicts.

Paul’s actions not only endangered her child but also illustrate how alcohol and personal disputes can spiral into legal crises.

For Paul, the consequences extend beyond legal ramifications.

Her public image, mental health, and relationships with her children are all at stake.

Social media followers have expressed shock and concern over her behavior.

What’s Next?

Paul faces a critical court date in April, where the outcome could lead to significant prison time.

Meanwhile, she continues her therapy and takes Zoloft to address anxiety and depression.

Paul has also indicated plans to keep her children off TikTok temporarily, signaling a potential shift in priorities.

Authorities and legal observers will likely watch the case closely, given the combination of celebrity status, child endangerment, and public attention.

Summary

Taylor Frankie Paul’s 2023 arrest footage reveals a night of heightened emotions, intoxication, and confrontation with law enforcement.

The escalation from a domestic dispute to felony charges highlights the risks involved in volatile personal situations, especially when children are present.

Bulleted Takeaways

• New bodycam footage shows Paul arguing with police while intoxicated and calling her father for help.
• The incident involved throwing metal chairs at boyfriend Dakota Mortensen, hitting her daughter Indy.
• Paul initially faced misdemeanor charges, later upgraded to felonies including aggravated assault and child abuse.
• Officers repeatedly attempted to calm Paul, who questioned legality, her intoxication level, and the officers’ empathy.
• Court date set for April 14; potential prison time up to five years per felony charge.
• Paul continues therapy and takes medication for anxiety and depression while temporarily stepping back from social media.