Divorce enters new arena

PROVO — Statements made on the floor of the Utah House of Representatives on Wednesday, have opened another area of controversy involving the divorce of state Rep. Katherine Bryson and Utah County Attorney Kay Bryson.

During a House debate of a bill dealing with arrest of someone for domestic violence Katherine Bryson, a Republican representing Dist. 60 in Orem, said: "I'm no stranger to domestic violence; a loaded gun was held on me."

"Strive to improve these laws that are so needed," Bryson said in support of HB183, sponsored by Rep. Peggy Wallace, R-West Jordan.

When informed of the comments, Kay Bryson said his estranged wife's allegations hurt him personally and professionally.

He said if Katherine Bryson was talking about him when she declared she'd been a victim of domestic violence with a loaded gun held on her, she was lying by omission.

"I think the inference would be that she's talking about me and if she is, I will tell you it is an absolute lie," Kay Bryson said. He said that never in 35 years of being married had he touched his wife in anger and never had he pointed a loaded gun at her.

Katherine Bryson told the Deseret Morning News on Wednesday night that she had not referred to any specific person during her floor comments. But, she maintained, she has experienced violence in her own home and said went to an attorney three years ago about an incident involving a gun.

"I'm not a stranger to domestic violence," Katherine Bryson said, "And on the floor, I said that."

She said because of her personal experience, she feels compelled to support any legislation that will help victims of domestic abuse.

Kay Bryson stated in court filings that his reasons for divorcing Katherine Bryson include adultery and irreconcilable differences.

Kay Bryson has said publicly that he also contacted the Federal Bureau of Investigation, asking them to investigate alleged fraudulent acts committed by his wife.

He said that investigation has reportedly been halted by the U.S. Attorney's Office.

Katherine Bryson has denied the allegations, saying she doesn't understand why her husband is making such allegations.