PHOENIX — A Colorado City man was sentenced Monday to 35 years in federal prison for his role in a multi-state child sexual abuse ring connected to a self-proclaimed religious leader, federal prosecutors announced.
Torrance Bistline, 36, was convicted by a jury last October of six felony counts, including using interstate communication to coerce a minor into sex, destruction of records, and tampering with an official proceeding. His sentence includes lifetime supervised release.
Details of the child abuse conspiracy
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona, Bistline was part of a child sexual abuse conspiracy led by Samuel Rappylee Bateman, who identified as the leader of a religious sect based in Colorado City.
During 2020 and 2021, Bateman’s followers allegedly gave him their minor daughters and wards as child “brides.” Authorities said Bistline participated in the abuse, sexually assaulting one of the girls during a group sexual encounter. He also allegedly attempted to destroy evidence and disrupt the federal investigation into the ring.
Prosecutors said Bistline financially supported the operation, providing luxury vehicles and other assistance to sustain the abuse network. Bateman and 10 other followers had already pleaded guilty to related charges.
FBI and child protection agencies applauded for efforts
The FBI’s Phoenix Field Office led the investigation. In a statement, federal prosecutors acknowledged the Arizona Department of Child Safety for rescuing the victims and protecting children impacted by the case.
Assistance also came from the Colorado City Police Department, Iron County (Utah) Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Marshals Service, and the FBI’s St. George Resident Agency in Utah.
“This sentence reflects the gravity of Bistline’s crimes and the federal government’s commitment to bringing justice to victims of child exploitation,” the U.S. Attorney’s Office said.
Bistline remains in federal custody.
