Samuel Bateman, leader of a polygamous sect in Arizona, was sentenced to 50 years in prison after being convicted in a federal court for conspiracy to transport a minor for sexual purposes and conspiracy to commit kidnappings. The case caused major media coverage due to the immeasurable damage Bateman inflicted on his victims, according to Judge Susan Brnovich. During the trial, victims’ testimonies resonated in the courtroom. A minor stated that the abuse caused a ripple effect harming everyone she knows, while a 17-year-old girl spoke for the silenced child being exploited. Bateman admitted, as per a plea deal in April, to manipulating minors for sexual activities with him and other adults, and planning to kidnap them across state lines. He founded the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and engaged in group sex with underage “wives”. Disturbingly, he attempted to marry his 14-year-old daughter, hoping to have a child with her. FBI investigations revealed recordings of Bateman stating God allowed him to take the girls’ virtue and that divine alterations could restore their virginity. During his 2022 arrest, FBI agents found multiple girls aged 11-16 at his Colorado residence, who were later placed under Arizona’s child services. However, they soon disappeared from temporary homes and were found in Spokane, Washington. Prosecutors alleged Bateman directed followers from prison to kidnap the girls and move them across state lines. Activist Christine Marie, who covertly recorded evidence for over a year, played a crucial role in the case. Despite her earlier warnings to authorities, it was her secret recording of Bateman that led to serious action.
In Arizona, a man who created a sect to sexually abuse young girls was sentenced. The man was identified as Michael Doğu, who was convicted of multiple counts
