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Jailed Mormon cult leader still able to control his child 'brides' while serving a 50-year sentence
- Bateman, jailed FLDS leader, continues to influence followers and some wives despite a 50-year federal sentence.
- Investigators say Bateman directs actions from prison, including contacting wives and guiding intimidation against a witness.
- Bateman allegedly tried to bypass prison rules by using another inmate’s PIN for communications.
- Federal case links Bateman to a scheme that involved transporting a minor for criminal sexual activity and kidnapping.
- The case outlines Bateman’s alleged role in a kidnapping plot involving eight missing girls later found in Washington state.
- Psychotherapist says Bateman’s followers are kept in a state of obedience and doubt is suppressed.
- Netflix documentary materials and court records helped investigators build the case against Bateman.
- Bateman’s sentence includes lifetime supervised release after his 50-year term.
- Experts say recovery for former cult members is possible but may take time.
- The case has drawn attention to ongoing risks posed by cult leaders who manipulate followers.
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