Polygamist Leader Samuel Bateman Sentenced to 50 Years for Child Abuse
Samuel Bateman, a polygamous religious leader with over 20 'wives,' including 10 underage girls, faces decades in prison for sexually abusing children and transporting them across state lines for these crimes. Bateman, an offshoot leader of the FLDS sect, pleaded guilty to these charges, which include kidnapping children from protective custody. His sentencing could be delayed pending a competency evaluation. Bateman's plea deal involves potential restitution and asset forfeiture, while several of his adult 'wives' and associates have also been convicted for related crimes.