“Not being contented with having disgraced one female, he made the attempt upon others ... evidently not caring whose character was ruined, so that his wicked, lustful appetites might be gratified.” — Joseph Smith¹

John C. Bennett, once a prominent leader in Nauvoo and a member of the First Presidency, rose to power quickly after joining the church in 1840. He was deeply involved in Nauvoo's political and civic life, even serving as mayor and holding significant positions in the Nauvoo Legion and Masonic Lodge. However, Bennett’s immoral behavior, including his promotion of "spiritual wifery," led to his excommunication in 1842. After leaving Nauvoo, Bennett turned against the church, publishing an exposé and accusing Joseph Smith of plotting the assassination of Lilburn W. Boggs.² Amongst his pursuits after his excommunication included lecturing on the innovative use of chloroform.

1. Joseph Smith, “Letter to the Church,” Times and Seasons, June 23, 1843

2. “Bennett, John Cook,” josephsmithpapers.org; Saints, Volume 1, Chapter 35, 419-427; Saints, Volume 1, Chapter 36, 435-436; Saints, Volume 1, Chapter 38, 457-467; Saints, Volume 1, Chapter 39, 475-478; Saints, Volume 1, Chapter 40, 484

3. Smith, Andrew F, The Saintly Scoundrel: The Life and Times of Dr. John Cook Bennett, Page 182