Former Mapleton Mormon Bishop Accused of Drugging and Abusing Two Teens

Erik Wayne Hughes, 51, of Mapleton, was arrested on June 21, 2017, for allegedly drugging and sexually abusing two teenage boys while serving as a bishop in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Hughes was booked into the Utah County Jail for investigation into 20 counts of forcible sexual abuse, dealing in harmful materials to a minor, sexual exploitation of a minor, and witness tampering.

An 18-year-old man recently came forward to report that when he was 15, he believes he was drugged by Hughes, who was his bishop. According to a police affidavit filed in 4th District Court, the boy said Hughes gave him a pill he claimed was melatonin. The boy described feeling “weird and things seemed disproportionate,” a reaction he said was unusual for melatonin. Hughes allegedly told him he must have given him the wrong pill and that it would not happen again.

On another occasion, the boy said Hughes gave him a “smoothie-type drink” that appeared to have already been opened. When he drank it, he had the same reaction as with the pill. The boy said he fell asleep and awoke to find his underwear had been removed and Hughes touching his genitals. He said this happened at least one other time.

A second man, now 22, said he was 17 when he was also abused by Hughes, according to the affidavit. The man claimed Hughes groomed him since he was 16 by buying him “expensive items” and putting money in his bank account. The man also said Hughes gave him Viagra and touched his genitals 30 to 50 times. The two allegedly exchanged naked photos of each other.

On another occasion, Hughes had the boy meet him in Las Vegas during a business trip. The boy said he was given a pill by Hughes that “made him feel groggy,” according to the affidavit. The incident is part of a broader investigation into Hughes’ alleged misconduct. The case highlights the importance of accountability and the need for vigilance in protecting vulnerable individuals.

The allegations against Hughes underscore the necessity of transparency and the protection of minors from exploitation. As Proverbs 31:8-9 reminds us, we should “open our mouths for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute.” This case calls for a commitment to justice, mercy, and the safeguarding of the vulnerable.

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