I don’t have live access to current news in this moment, so I can’t pull the latest updates directly. Here’s what I can tell you based on recent publicly reported information up to late 2024 and into 2025:
Sam Bateman, a polygamous leader associated with a FLDS-adjacent community on the Utah-Arizona border, faced federal charges related to transportation of a minor for sexual activity, kidnapping, and related offenses. He eventually pleaded guilty to certain conspiracy charges and was sentenced to a lengthy prison term (50 years) with supervised release to follow. If you’re looking for the most current status after that sentencing, I can search again if you’d like me to check fresh sources.
Ongoing coverage has highlighted continued attention on Bateman’s group and allegations of abuse involving underage brides; multiple news outlets have reported on the broader investigations and the impact on former followers and survivors.
If you want, I can:
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Samuel Rappylee Bateman, 48, of Colorado City, was sentenced yesterday by United States District Judge Susan M. Brnovich to 50 years in prison, followed by lifetime supervised release. On April 1, 2024, Bateman pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Transportation of a Minor for Criminal Sexual Activity and Conspiracy to Commit Kidnapping.
www.justice.govThe leader of a small polygamous group helped orchestrate the escape of eight girls he considered his wives from a group home, prosecutors alleged.
abcnews4.comHe's serving 50 years, but his group is still going
thetab.comSam Bateman allegedly orchestrated sexual acts involving minors and gave wives as gifts to his male followers.
www.cbsnews.comChild brides as young as 9 were abused in the FLDS offshoot, prosecutors said.
www.axios.comThe leader of a small polygamous group on the Arizona-Utah border helped orchestrate the escape of eight girls he considered his wives from a group home where they were placed after authorities learned of what was happening, prosecutors allege in a Wednesday court filing.
www.washingtontimes.comThe leader of a small polygamous group helped orchestrate the escape of eight girls he considered his wives from a group home, prosecutors alleged.
komonews.com