A leader of a polygamous sect, already serving a 50-year federal prison term for involvement in child sexual abuse, received an additional 24-year sentence on state charges related to child abuse. Samuel Bateman, aged 50, was found guilty of three counts of child abuse following a traffic stop in Flagstaff, Arizona, in August 2022. The stop revealed three girls, aged 11 to 14, inside an unventilated trailer equipped with basic amenities but lacking essential features like air conditioning and seat belts. The trailer’s conditions were reported to authorities after a witness noticed small fingers protruding through gaps in the doors.
Bateman, formerly linked to a faction of the polygamous group once led by Warren Jeffs, is currently serving a 50-year federal sentence for coercing young girls to engage in sexual acts and planning the abduction of girls from protective custody. Judge Joshua Steinlage decided that due to the grave danger posed to the girls in the trailer, Bateman must serve the state sentence following the completion of his federal term.
During his sentencing, Bateman, representing himself, expressed love for his followers and claimed no malicious intent. However, the victims refuted his assertions, with one survivor recounting the emotional distress suffered while revealing the sexual exploitation she endured at a young age. She emphasized the irreversible impact on her childhood caused by Bateman’s actions.
In a separate case, Bateman admitted awareness of the girls being confined in the hot trailer for an extended period, acknowledging inadequate ventilation. He claimed he believed the girls had exited the trailer during the stop and was shocked to discover they were still inside when apprehended.
The sentencing was seen as a step towards holding Bateman accountable for the harm inflicted on the victims, as stated by Coconino County Attorney Ammon Barker. Bateman’s extensive travels across several states to expand his splinter group of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints were noted by federal authorities.
Bateman, a self-proclaimed prophet, previously boasted of having over 20 “spiritual wives,” including minors. He was closely associated with Warren Jeffs, who is serving a life sentence in Texas for child sexual assault. The influence of Bateman’s polygamous sect has diminished over time in the towns where it was historically prominent, with court interventions leading to significant changes in governance and policing.
The Netflix series “Trust Me: The False Prophet” focused on Bateman’s exploits, shedding light on the controversial practices within the polygamous community.
