Samuel Bateman’s Victims Confront Him: “I Will Never Forgive You” at Sentencing

PHOENIX — Samuel Bateman, a polygamist religious leader, was sentenced to 50 years in prison after coercing young girls into sexual acts and attempting to kidnap them from protective custody. Bateman, 48, had claimed more than 20 spiritual “wives,” including 10 minors, one as young as 9.

His conviction stems from a guilty plea regarding a long-running scheme that involved transporting girls across state lines for sex. He admitted to two counts: conspiracy to transport a minor for sexual activity and conspiracy to commit kidnapping. Each count resulted in a 50-year prison sentence to be served concurrently.

U.S. District Court Judge Susan Brnovich expressed the gravity of Bateman’s crimes, emphasizing the lifelong impact on his victims. After emotional statements from several teenage girls, the judge stated, “You stripped them of their innocence and childhood.” The girls, now in the care of foster families, spoke of their struggles with relationships and the trauma they endure.

Bateman, a self-proclaimed “prophet” from an offshoot of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS), attempted to create a new sect following the teachings of notorious FLDS leader Warren Jeffs, who previously faced legal repercussions for similar crimes. Evidence suggested that Bateman engaged in illegal sexual contact with multiple girls whom he claimed as “wives,” exploiting both adults and children within his community.

The systematic abuse was confirmed by federal investigators, indicating Bateman coerced underage girls into sexual activity and even demanded confessions for any perceived indiscretions among his followers. In 2022, he was arrested after police discovered three girls aged 11 to 14 inside a trailer he was towing, lacking ventilation and basic facilities.

Following his arrest, Bateman faced additional charges for obstructing a federal investigation into his illegal activities. Authorities rescued nine children from his home in Colorado City, of which eight later attempted to flee from foster care, highlighting the ongoing risk to minors associated with Bateman’s group. His scheme also involved enlisting his followers to participate in the kidnapping of girls from protective custody.

Bateman’s plea agreement required the guilty pleas of his co-defendants, including multiple adult “wives” who faced their own convictions for complicity in the abuse. Some were directly involved in coercing younger girls to engage in sexual activities or in aiding in the kidnappings. Legal challenges continue for additional associated parties, with sentencing dates set for those involved in the elaborate criminal network.

This case underscores the continuing issues of abuse within certain sects and the longstanding challenges faced by victims as they seek justice and healing. Federal prosecutors pointed to a need for restitution, demanding up to $1 million per victim and forfeiture of all related assets from Bateman’s crimes.

As the community attempts to recover and promote healing among those affected, the full extent of the damage caused by Bateman’s actions will likely resonate for years to come.