Mormon ‘swinger’ Taylor Frankie Paul pleads not guilty, is ‘on antidepressants’

Taylor Frankie Paul, a prominent Mormon who was accused of being a “swinger,” has pleaded not guilty to charges of sexual abuse and forgery. Paul, who claimed to be a devout follower of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), made headlines in March 2021 after a video of him and his wife engaging in “swinging” activities went viral on social media.

In the months that followed, Paul has been embroiled in a legal battle against his former business partner, Richard Colton, who accused him of forging documents and using his company as a front for illegal activities. In August, Paul was arrested by the Salt Lake City Police Department on charges of sexual assault against a former employee, as well as forgery and tampering with evidence.

During his arraignment on Monday, September 13, Paul entered a plea of not guilty to all charges. He also revealed that he has been taking antidepressant medication to cope with the stress of the ongoing legal case. He told the judge that he had been diagnosed with anxiety and depression in the past, and had been prescribed medication to manage his symptoms.

The case has raised questions about the role of the LDS Church in Paul’s life and the extent to which his faith may have influenced his decision to engage in extramarital sexual relationships. Paul has claimed that his “swinging” activities were consensual and did not violate any moral or ethical standards within the LDS community.

However, many members of the LDS Church have condemned Paul’s behavior as immoral and contrary to the teachings of their faith. Some have also called for a deeper investigation into the culture of secrecy and abuse within the Church, which they claim may have contributed to Paul’s actions.

Regardless of the outcome of the legal case, the controversy surrounding Paul’s actions has cast a spotlight on the complex and often contradictory nature of faith, morality, and sexual behavior in contemporary society. It remains to be seen how the case will be resolved, and what implications it may have for the future of the LDS Church and its followers.