A polygamist sect leader, Samuel Rappylee Bateman, has been sentenced to 50 years in prison for orchestrating the sexual exploitation of underage girls. 1 The sentencing, handed down by a federal judge, comes after a harrowing account from victims who detailed the abuse they endured.
Bateman, who pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges, admitted to manipulating children into sexual activity and arranging encounters between his followers and minors. The judge emphasized the immeasurable harm caused by Bateman’s actions.
Victim impact statements were delivered by several girls who had suffered abuse. One survivor, addressing Bateman directly, declared, “You have no power over me.” Another victim, speaking on behalf of those still suffering, described the enduring trauma and the struggle to heal from such abuse.
The case came to light after a year-long effort by an advocate who secretly recorded Bateman’s confessions of abuse. Law enforcement, including the FBI, eventually intervened, leading to Bateman’s arrest and the rescue of multiple underage girls.
The judge, in delivering the sentence, denounced Bateman’s actions, stating that he had used his position of power to manipulate and abuse vulnerable children. The 50-year sentence reflects the severity of the crimes and the lasting impact on the victims.