Dakota Mortensen dating Shinia Powell amid Taylor Frankie Paul custody battle

Dakota Mortensen reportedly found love again as he navigates an ongoing custody dispute with ex-girlfriend Taylor Frankie Paul over their two-year-old son, Ever.

According to People, Mortensen is dating Shinia Powell, who appeared as a friend on The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives. A source told the outlet that the pair's relationship developed naturally after Powell supported Mortensen through a difficult period.

Friendship reportedly turned into romance

"Shinia has been a steady source of support for Dakota through some incredibly difficult times, especially when he did not have immediate family nearby," the insider said.

The source added that their close friendship gradually became romantic and that they are enjoying their time together while carefully navigating the relationship for the sake of their children.

The insider also said the couple understands the public interest surrounding their relationship but hopes people will respect their privacy as they move forward.

Relationship comes amid custody dispute

The reported romance comes while Mortensen remains locked in a high-profile legal battle with Paul over custody of their son, Ever.

Earlier this month, Utah's Division of Child and Family Services reportedly asked a juvenile court to determine whether Paul's three children are abused, neglected or dependent, while also requesting protective supervision and the appointment of a guardian ad litem.

Fathers issue joint statement

Following the filing, Mortensen and Paul's ex-husband, Tate Paul, released a joint statement expressing concern over the situation.

The pair said they remain focused on protecting the children, supporting accountability and allowing their families time to heal, while declining to publicly discuss the legal proceedings further.

Protective orders remain in place

The former couple's legal dispute has continued for months.

In March, Mortensen sought a protective order against Paul, alleging she had been physically violent toward him. Paul later filed for a restraining order against Mortensen, and both were eventually granted mutual protective orders.

Representatives for Mortensen, Powell and Paul did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the reported relationship.