Garrick Merrifield, known for his role on TLC's controversial series 'Seeking Sister Wife', has been taken into custody following an alleged domestic violence incident. The arrest occurred in Chaffee County, Colorado, casting a shadow over the polygamist family's recent celebration of a new birth.
The Arrest and Charges
According to reports from TMZ, Merrifield was arrested on Monday and has since been released on bond. Online court records reveal he is facing a specific charge of 'telephone-obstruct service', a charge that legal experts often associate with domestic altercations.
The Sawyer Legal Group explains that this charge can be applied when an individual grabs a phone to prevent someone from calling for help, thereby qualifying as obstruction of telephone service. A spokesperson for the Chaffee County authorities confirmed Merrifield's arrest and subsequent release.
A Complex Family Dynamic
This legal trouble arrives at a pivotal moment for the Merrifield family. Just one week prior to the arrest, Garrick and his two wives, Dannielle and Lorrana, announced the birth of their daughter, Sarah Mae Merrifield, in July. The child is Garrick's first with his second wife, Lorrana, whom he married in October 2024.
The family's structure is central to their television narrative. After more than a decade in a monogamous marriage, Garrick and his first wife, Dannielle, legally divorced in 2020. Garrick stated he felt divinely inspired to pursue a plural marriage lifestyle. The couple, who share three children—sons Geremiah and Solomon, and daughter Leia—remained together spiritually while Garrick sought new partners.
Public Persona vs. Private Allegations
In recent interviews, the family had painted a picture of harmonious co-parenting. Speaking to People magazine, Garrick described the 'wonderful' experience of plural family life. 'It’s a blessing to have all of our family involved helping each other,' he said, detailing how the arrangement allowed him and his wives to take turns with childcare and go on trips.
Dannielle echoed this sentiment, telling the publication, 'It’s so special to have Lorrana in the house and that we are actually a family now, living plural and experiencing all the benefits of the lifestyle that God has called us to.'
These public declarations of a blessed and supportive family unit now stand in stark contrast to the allegations of domestic violence. Garrick Merrifield did not immediately respond to a request for comment from The Independent following his arrest.
'Seeking Sister Wife', which documents families seeking to add new partners, is currently airing its sixth season on TLC. The show and its stars have frequently been at the centre of public debate regarding the nature of their relationships.
