Samuel Rappylee Bateman, a 48-year-old from Colorado City, has been sentenced to 50 years in prison followed by lifetime supervised release. The sentence was handed down by United States District Judge Susan M. Brnovich after Bateman pleaded guilty on April 1, 2024, to charges of conspiracy to commit transportation of a minor for criminal sexual activity and conspiracy to commit kidnapping.
United States Attorney Gary Restaino emphasized the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals, stating, “Protecting the most vulnerable is our highest calling as prosecutors.” He also expressed gratitude towards prosecutors and law enforcement for their efforts in the investigation.
FBI Phoenix Special Agent in Charge Jose A. Perez highlighted the significance of the sentencing for the victims: “Today’s sentencing brings some closure to the victims with hopes they can confidently continue the long road to living normal lives with trusted and loving adults surrounding them.”
Bateman led a child sexual abuse ring that operated across multiple states and involved at least ten children. Starting in 2019, he gained followers in Arizona, Utah, Colorado, and Nebraska. During 2020 and 2021, his followers provided him with their minor daughters as "brides" for abuse. Victims were as young as nine years old. Bateman coerced them into participating in sexual activities with both adults and other children. In one instance, he streamed a live video of child sexual abuse to his followers.
After his arrest on federal charges in September 2022, Bateman's victims were placed under the care of the Arizona Department of Child Safety. In November 2022, he conspired with followers to kidnap eight girls from their custody placements; they were later found by law enforcement and returned to Arizona.
Alongside Bateman, eleven adult followers faced charges related to this conspiracy. Two co-defendants were convicted at trial while others pleaded guilty. Some have already been sentenced; remaining sentences are pending.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation-Phoenix conducted the investigation with prosecution handled by the United States Attorney’s Office in Phoenix. Contributions from various agencies including Arizona Department of Child Safety and local law enforcement played crucial roles in addressing this case.