Dakota Mortensen has denied claims that Taylor Frankie Paul was “desperate” and waging a “destructive campaign to harm” her after a 2023 domestic violence video was released.
“As anyone who has seen the video can attest, this is an extremely upsetting situation,” he told Page Six in a statement Thursday.
“Unfortunately, I am no stranger to unsubstantiated claims about me and our relationship, which I categorically deny. I am focused on my son and his safety, and I hope you will do the same for Taylor.”
A representative for Paul, 31, could not be reached for comment.
On Thursday, a 2023 video was released showing the “Secrets of a Mormon Wife” star hitting and throwing a chair at Mortensen, 33.
The disturbing footage shows Paul’s now eight-year-old daughter Indi crying behind him on the sofa.
“Your daughter just got hit in the head with a metal chair,” Mortensen told the content creator.
Paul later responded to her ex-boyfriend, saying: “You did it. You threw me.”
When police arrived, the television personality told officers that Mortensen threw her to the floor before he began filming.
A spokesperson for Paul told Page Six that the video was “selectively edited” and therefore “conveniently omitted context.”
The attorney also condemned Mortensen’s “endless, desperate, high-profile, destructive campaign to harm Taylor with no regard for the impact on the child.”
At the time, Paul was arrested and charged with assault, criminal mischief, and domestic violence in the presence of a minor. However, she later claimed that the charges were dropped.
Additionally, Mortensen filed for a restraining order against Paul on Tuesday, accusing him of attacking her twice in February.
According to TMZ, Mortensen accused Paul of strangling her and claimed he threatened to hurt her. He also requested temporary custody of his 2-year-old son Ever.
Filming on the upcoming season of SLOMW has been halted following a domestic violence investigation, People reports.
ABC also canceled the next season of “The Bachelorette” starring Paul shortly after the video was released.
“In light of the new video that was just released today, we have made the decision not to move forward with a new season of ‘The Bachelorette’ at this time. Our focus is on supporting our families,” the network told Page Six.
Reacting to the cancellation, Paul told Page Six that he was “very grateful for ABC’s support as I prioritize the safety and security of my family.”
“After enduring years of extensive emotional and physical abuse and threats of retribution in silence, Taylor has finally found the strength to confront her accusers and is taking steps to ensure she and her children are protected from further harm,” the agent said.
If you or someone you know is affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text START to 88788.
