Arizona: Polygamist Cult Leader and Followers Face New Charges in Federal Indictment

Lurid Details of Sexual Harm Allegations Emerge

A new federal indictment consisting of 53 felony counts has shed light on shocking allegations against Samuel Bateman, the leader of an Arizona-based polygamist fundamentalist cult. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for Arizona has expanded the case, now accusing Bateman and 10 others, including relatives and followers, of causing sexual harm to nine girls between the ages of 9 and 17. The latest court filings reveal disturbing details, including allegations of coercing young girls into sexual acts, trading nights with girls for luxury cars, and engaging in live-streamed group sex acts.

Bateman’s Initial Charges and the Widening Investigation

Initially, Bateman and three followers faced charges of kidnapping and destruction of evidence in a federal investigation. However, the new indictment expands the scope of the case and presents more serious allegations. The indictment includes “overt acts” described in a detailed timeline, beginning with Bateman declaring himself a prophet in 2019 and ending with his arrest by federal agents in 2022. The indictment accuses Bateman of manipulating underage girls, convincing them and their parents that God commanded them to marry him, and engaging in sexual acts with them.

Allegations of Coercion, Transportation, and Exploitation

The new indictment reveals the disturbing pattern of Bateman taking underage girls as his wives, with the first instance occurring in March 2020 when he claimed a vision from God instructed him to marry a 9-year-old girl. Prosecutors allege that Bateman coerced multiple girls, engaging in sexual acts with them and facilitating encounters with other adults. The indictment also implicates other defendants, including Bateman’s claimed wives and relatives, in various charges related to child pornography, transportation of minors for sexual activity, and tampering with evidence.

Seizure of Assets and Court Proceedings

Federal prosecutors are seeking to seize Bateman’s belongings, including two homes in Colorado City referred to as the “Blue House” and the “Green House.” The indictment highlights attempts by Bateman and his followers to delete messages and hide evidence after his arrest. Bateman, along with the 10 co-defendants, is facing multiple felony counts, including the production of child pornography, transportation of minors for sexual activity, and tampering with an official proceeding. Bateman is scheduled for arraignment in court in Phoenix.