Arizona Sheriff Sex Scandal (Mark Lamb), Stake President Fraud - Mormon News 5/29/26 | Ep. 2154

This week on Mormon Stories News, John Dehlin and Meggan Hayes break down some of the biggest stories making headlines in Mormonism.

We begin with the growing scandal surrounding former Pinal County Sheriff and congressional candidate Mark Lamb. Recent reporting from The Arizona Republic details allegations involving explicit messages, secret relationships, and accusations that raise serious questions about image management, accountability, and whether Mormon leaders around Lamb have helped to protect him from consequences. We discuss the allegations, the reporting, and the role Mormon culture can play in protecting reputations while discouraging difficult conversations.

We also examine the case of former LDS stake president Patrick Bucknum, who has been accused by federal authorities of orchestrating a years-long fraud scheme involving millions of dollars. Bucknum previously served in prominent church leadership positions, leading many to ask how trust, authority, and perceived spiritual worthiness can influence the way individuals are viewed within faith communities.

We take a look at the newest reports from Ensign Peak Advisors, the investment arm of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. With the church's investment portfolio recently losing billions, we discuss what the latest filings reveal, where the money is being invested, and why church finances remain one of the most debated topics among members and former members alike.

We also cover the arrest of William Scott Messer at BYU-Idaho. The case has generated significant attention in the Rexburg community and raises questions about discernment and how William obtained an ecclesiastical endorsement.

Next, we discuss Auckland YSA and visiting General Authority Peter Meurs and his challenge encouraging young single adults to go on 26 dates in 2026. While some see the initiative as a fun way to encourage social interaction, others view it as another example of the intense cultural pressure many Latter-day Saints experience surrounding dating, marriage, and family formation.

Finally, we break down the latest reporting from The Salt Lake Tribune regarding church annotations. The article shines a light on a little-understood system used by church leaders to place confidential notes on member records. The story has sparked fresh concerns about how abuse is handled in the church and the lack of training given to the leaders who are tasked with making and keeping annotations.

From leadership scandals and financial disclosures to dating culture, criminal investigations, and church transparency, this week's Mormon Stories News covers the stories shaping conversations throughout the Mormon world.

Which story stood out to you the most? Let us know in the comments.

Show notes can be found on the Mormon Stories blog here

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