Why is it so hard to stop abuse in these communities… even when people know it’s happening?

In Episode 2 of Trust Me: A False Prophet, we dive deeper into the case of Samuel Bateman and the devastating reality victims face when law enforcement can’t act without testimony.

We talk about how young girls were groomed from birth to obey priesthood leaders and “the prophet,” and how they were taught to share “spiritual testimonies” that led them into these marriages. From the outside, it can be confusing—but from the inside, this level of control is all they’ve ever known.

We also break down one of the most frustrating parts of this story:

Even when authorities are aware of what’s happening, their hands are often tied unless victims are willing—and able—to speak out.

And in the middle of all of this, we highlight the incredible courage of Christine and Tolga, who spent months fighting to help these girls, even when the system wasn’t working in their favor.

This episode isn’t just about what happened… it’s about why it keeps happening.

👉 Let us know your thoughts in the comments: What needs to change for victims to actually be protected?

Topics we cover:

Why law enforcement struggles to intervene

Grooming and obedience in fundamentalist groups

“Spiritual testimony” vs coercion

Why victims don’t (or can’t) speak out

Christine & Tolga’s fight to help these girls

If you appreciate honest conversations and real insight into these communities, make sure to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more.

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If you or someone you love has left polygamy and needs assistance, please reach out to "Holding Out HELP" at 801-548-3492 or visit their website at www.holdingouthelp.org

At Growing Up In Polygamy our mission is to "Create compassion for communities that have been misunderstood, marginalized and/or abused by their leaders, and to empower those who have left by giving them a platform to share their stories with the world."

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