Dakota Mortensen has filed for a restraining order against Taylor Frankie Paul, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing controversy that has already disrupted her upcoming season of The Bachelorette. According to newly surfaced court documents, Mortensen is also seeking sole custody of their young son, citing multiple alleged incidents of physical altercations in late February.
In the filing, which was obtained by TMZ, Mortensen claims that arguments on February 23 and 24 at Paul’s home turned violent, alleging she choked him, struck him, and prevented him from leaving. He further states that their child was present during some of the incidents and that he called 911 during one altercation.
Mortensen alleges Paul attempted to stop the call by urging him to say their child was sick, and claims she threatened to harm herself. “I am genuinely concerned for my safety and the safety and well-being of my child,” he said in the filing.
He is requesting a protective order, temporary custody, and restrictions on alcohol or drug use during Paul’s parenting time. A hearing has been scheduled for April 7.
The latest legal move comes as scrutiny around Paul has intensified in recent days, driven in part by the resurfacing of video from a 2023 incident involving the former couple. In the footage, obtained by TMZ, Paul is seen throwing chairs during an argument while Mortensen records.
At one point, he can be heard saying, “This is called physical abuse,” and shouting that a child was present during the altercation.
The incident previously led to Paul’s arrest; she later pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated assault, while other charges were dismissed.
Paul’s representative has pushed back against the latest claims, describing Mortensen’s actions as “a never-ending, desperate, attention-seeking, destructive campaign” and criticizing the video’s release.
The statement added that the timing of the footage’s release was “a reprehensible attempt” to shift attention.
The legal filings arrive amid an ongoing domestic assault investigation in Utah, where authorities have confirmed that allegations have been made by both parties.
The situation has already had ripple effects across Paul’s professional projects. ABC recently pulled The Bachelorette from its schedule just days before its planned premiere, citing the emergence of the video and the need to prioritize those involved. Production on The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives has also been paused.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit thehotline.org for confidential support.
