In a significant legal development, LaDell Jay Bistline, Jr., 45, and Torrance Bistline, 36, were convicted on multiple charges by a federal jury in Phoenix for their roles in a prolonged child sexual abuse conspiracy. Notably, these two men from Colorado City, Arizona, engaged in criminal activities that not only spanned various states but also left at least ten children as victims. Their affiliation with Samuel Rappylee Bateman, a self-proclaimed leader of a religious sect, was central to the prosecution's case, which involved charges that ranged from possession of child pornography to transportation of minors for sexual activity. Bateman, along with nine followers, had previously pleaded guilty to related charges and were not on trial alongside the Bistline brothers, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office, District of Arizona.
"Today’s verdict is a step towards justice for the victims of LaDell and Torrance Bistline," U.S. Attorney Gary Restaino said in the release. He condemned the brothers' misuse of power and the indelible harm they inflicted upon their victims. Restaino made it clear to always work relentlessly to support and heal those affected by such exploitation. The FBI also expressed their dedicated efforts in this case, with Special Agent in Charge Jose A. Perez emphasizing the agency's role in protecting children and ensuring perpetrators are held accountable.
LaDell Jay Bistline, Jr. was found guilty on several counts, including receipt of child pornography, coercing minors into sexual activity, and transportation of a minor for criminal sexual activity. His younger brother, Torrance Bistline, faced convictions including the use of interstate commerce to coerce a minor and charges relating to evidence tampering and obstruction of the investigation. Evidence presented at trial detailed a harrowing scheme where LaDell Jay Bistline, Jr. delivered two of his daughters, aged nine and 11, to become child "brides" of Bateman, as well as participating in group sexual activities involving children and live-streaming such acts, as detailed by the U.S. Attorney's Office, District of Arizona. Torrance Bistline provided financial support to Bateman's sect and sexually abused one of Bateman's child "brides," later attempting to destroy evidence.
Both men now face a minimum of 10 years and the possibility of life in prison. Sentencing for LaDell Jay Bistline, Jr. is set for December 16, while Torrance Bistline's will follow on December 20. Their leader, Samuel Rappylee Bateman, is scheduled to be sentenced on October 28. The convictions conclude a multi-agency effort, with acknowledgments extended to the Arizona Department of Child Safety, Colorado City Police Department, and others for their roles in rescuing the victims and aiding the investigation.
