FLDS raid appears to have backfired
http://www.latimes.com/news/printedition/front/la-na-polygamist31-2008may31,0,5459251.story
Excerpt
The children, who have been in foster homes scattered around the state, were set to be reunited with their families beginning Monday. But the deal was complicated when a trial judge late Friday refused to approve it unless dozens of parents filed pledges not to leave Texas -- a process that could take several days.
Legal analysts said that reuniting the FLDS families would make it harder to prove any children were abused. "It's very hard to talk to a child about what's going on in a household," Marrus said, "when they're in that household."
DNA taken from sect leader in inquiry
http://www.cnn.com/2008/CRIME/05/30/texas.polygamists/?iref=hpmostpop
Excerpts
Texas authorities say they collected DNA swabs from jailed polygamist sect leader Warren Jeffs in connection with a criminal investigation involving "spiritual marriages" to four girls ages 12 to 15.
------------------------------
The criminal investigation moved to the forefront Friday as a Texas judge refused to sign an order returning to their homes more than 300 children seized last month from the polygamist sect's ranch. Judge Barbara Walther said she wanted all the mothers involved to sign the order first.
In the criminal investigation, marital records -- known as bishop's records -- were seized April 3 from the sect's Yearning for Zion ranch, according to an affidavit for a search warrant seeking the DNA samples. The records show that Jeffs married a 14-year-old girl January 18, 2004, in Utah, the affidavit says.
Jeffs "married" three other underage brides -- two 12-year-olds and a 14-year-old -- at the sect's 1,700-acre ranch near Eldorado, Texas, the affidavit says.
The court document refers to photos of Jeffs with his alleged child brides. In one picture, the affidavit states, he is kissing one of the 12-year-olds. In another, he is with a 15-year-old wife at the birth of their child in October 2004, according to the affidavit.
Jeffs is believed to have "committed the felony offense of sexual assault of a child," the affidavit says. One of the 12-year-olds, who was believed to have married Jeffs on July 27, 2006, allegedly was sexually assaulted by him that day, the affidavit states.
The DNA samples will allow authorities to determine whether he is the father of the children born to underage mothers, according to the court documents.
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Friday, May 30, 2008
TX Supreme Court weighs in
The state has ruled and the results are in. However, checkout my highlighted excerpts below! This is far from over!
Texas high court: Removal of sect kids 'not warranted'
http://www.cnn.com/2008/CRIME/05/29/texas.polygamists/?iref=hpmostpop
Excerpts
The Texas Supreme Court agreed with a lower court's ruling, that the state's Child Protective Services division did not present ample evidence that the children were being abused.
-----------------------------------
It's unlikely the children will be returned to their homes soon, because it's unclear which child belongs to which parent. A DNA testing order by the district court is incomplete.
And even if the children do return to the YFZ Ranch, the case may not be over. The justices noted that Texas law gives the district court "broad authority to protect children short of separating them from their parents and placing them in foster care."
Examples of those conditions might be a court order saying a child must remain in a certain geographical area or an order removing an alleged perpetrator from the child's home, the district court said.
-----------------------------------
In the Texas Supreme Court decision, the three dissenting justices said in an attached opinion that they agreed that the state had no right to remove the young boys from the ranch but that the district court did not err in electing to remove pubescent girls from the ranch and keep them in state custody.
The pubescent girls are "demonstrably endangered," Justice Harriet O'Neill wrote.
-----------------------------------
Texas attorney Barbara Elias-Perciful supported the state in her filing. She has been a guardian ad litem -- an attorney representing children's interests -- in child protection cases for 16 years and is also the director of Texas Lawyers for Children.
"This case involves the systematic rape of minor children -- conduct that is institutionalized and euphemistically called 'spiritual marriage,'" she wrote. "Typically, there is no media coverage of the horrific acts sexual predators commit against children ... if the media showed the actual events of adult males demanding sex with 11-year-old girls, there would be no one questioning the graphic danger of returning these children to their home at this time."
Texas high court: Removal of sect kids 'not warranted'
http://www.cnn.com/2008/CRIME/05/29/texas.polygamists/?iref=hpmostpop
Excerpts
The Texas Supreme Court agreed with a lower court's ruling, that the state's Child Protective Services division did not present ample evidence that the children were being abused.
-----------------------------------
It's unlikely the children will be returned to their homes soon, because it's unclear which child belongs to which parent. A DNA testing order by the district court is incomplete.
And even if the children do return to the YFZ Ranch, the case may not be over. The justices noted that Texas law gives the district court "broad authority to protect children short of separating them from their parents and placing them in foster care."
Examples of those conditions might be a court order saying a child must remain in a certain geographical area or an order removing an alleged perpetrator from the child's home, the district court said.
-----------------------------------
In the Texas Supreme Court decision, the three dissenting justices said in an attached opinion that they agreed that the state had no right to remove the young boys from the ranch but that the district court did not err in electing to remove pubescent girls from the ranch and keep them in state custody.
The pubescent girls are "demonstrably endangered," Justice Harriet O'Neill wrote.
-----------------------------------
Texas attorney Barbara Elias-Perciful supported the state in her filing. She has been a guardian ad litem -- an attorney representing children's interests -- in child protection cases for 16 years and is also the director of Texas Lawyers for Children.
"This case involves the systematic rape of minor children -- conduct that is institutionalized and euphemistically called 'spiritual marriage,'" she wrote. "Typically, there is no media coverage of the horrific acts sexual predators commit against children ... if the media showed the actual events of adult males demanding sex with 11-year-old girls, there would be no one questioning the graphic danger of returning these children to their home at this time."
Thursday, May 29, 2008
CPS appeals and more evidence given
Sorry I have been away but hopefully I can catch you up!!!
Right now, we are still awaiting the TX Supreme Court to give a decision on The CPS's appeal to keep the FLDS children in state custody:
FLDS Supreme Court Decision Possible Today
http://www.590klbj.com/News/Story.aspx?ID=92294
On the 27th, the CPS released new evidence on Warren Jeffs kissing severally underage girls in what seems to be wedding anniversary picture.....
The Kiss Of Jeffs
http://www.thesmokinggun.com/archive/years/2008/0527081flds1.html
....The CPS gave more reasons to not release FLDS child to parents prematurely....
CPS: 3 more reasons to keep sect children in foster care
http://www.statesman.com/blogs/content/shared-gen/blogs/austin/politics/entries/2008/05/27/cps_3_more_reasons_to_keep_sec.html
.... And CBS did a special on the FLDS and polygamy in general:
Polygamy: A World Apart
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/05/22/48hours/main4120479.shtml
Excerpt
(CBS) CBS News delves into the clandestine world of polygamy and the FLDS in a 48 Hours special with insider accounts, harrowing escape stories, interviews with law enforcement officials and an explosive interview with high-ranking FLDS member Willie Jessop.
Below are two articles from few days ago - the second an opinion piece I found rather interesting:
Texas officials to appeal FLDS ruling
http://www.sltrib.com/ci_9359188
Excerpt
The Texas Department of Family and Protective Service says it will file an appeal with the Texas Supreme Court in an attempt to stop an appellate court ruling that FLDS children were kept in state custody improperly.
Commentary: Appellate court wrong on FLDS
http://www.cnn.com/2008/CRIME/05/23/flds.appeals/
Excerpt
The court even reasoned that under Texas law, "it is not sexual assault to have consensual intercourse with a minor spouse to whom one is legally married" and that Texas law "allows minor to marry -- as young as age 16 with parental consent and younger than 16 if pursuant to court order." Wrong again.
The polygamists are not "legally married" to anyone since it is illegal to marry more than one person. They are "spiritually married" and abusing young girls. Finally, the court also states there "was no evidence that .... the female children who had not reached puberty, were victims of sexual or other physical abuse or in danger of being victims if sexual or other physical abuse."
Oh, I get it. The Department should wait until the kids are actually abused before doing anything. It's almost as if the Department can't win: If they act, they are overzealous; if they don't act, they are not doing the job entrusted to them -- protecting our children.
Right now, we are still awaiting the TX Supreme Court to give a decision on The CPS's appeal to keep the FLDS children in state custody:
FLDS Supreme Court Decision Possible Today
http://www.590klbj.com/News/Story.aspx?ID=92294
On the 27th, the CPS released new evidence on Warren Jeffs kissing severally underage girls in what seems to be wedding anniversary picture.....
The Kiss Of Jeffs
http://www.thesmokinggun.com/archive/years/2008/0527081flds1.html
....The CPS gave more reasons to not release FLDS child to parents prematurely....
CPS: 3 more reasons to keep sect children in foster care
http://www.statesman.com/blogs/content/shared-gen/blogs/austin/politics/entries/2008/05/27/cps_3_more_reasons_to_keep_sec.html
.... And CBS did a special on the FLDS and polygamy in general:
Polygamy: A World Apart
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/05/22/48hours/main4120479.shtml
Excerpt
(CBS) CBS News delves into the clandestine world of polygamy and the FLDS in a 48 Hours special with insider accounts, harrowing escape stories, interviews with law enforcement officials and an explosive interview with high-ranking FLDS member Willie Jessop.
Below are two articles from few days ago - the second an opinion piece I found rather interesting:
Texas officials to appeal FLDS ruling
http://www.sltrib.com/ci_9359188
Excerpt
The Texas Department of Family and Protective Service says it will file an appeal with the Texas Supreme Court in an attempt to stop an appellate court ruling that FLDS children were kept in state custody improperly.
Commentary: Appellate court wrong on FLDS
http://www.cnn.com/2008/CRIME/05/23/flds.appeals/
Excerpt
The court even reasoned that under Texas law, "it is not sexual assault to have consensual intercourse with a minor spouse to whom one is legally married" and that Texas law "allows minor to marry -- as young as age 16 with parental consent and younger than 16 if pursuant to court order." Wrong again.
The polygamists are not "legally married" to anyone since it is illegal to marry more than one person. They are "spiritually married" and abusing young girls. Finally, the court also states there "was no evidence that .... the female children who had not reached puberty, were victims of sexual or other physical abuse or in danger of being victims if sexual or other physical abuse."
Oh, I get it. The Department should wait until the kids are actually abused before doing anything. It's almost as if the Department can't win: If they act, they are overzealous; if they don't act, they are not doing the job entrusted to them -- protecting our children.
Friday, May 23, 2008
Court Ruling and Reactions
Two articles on the shocking court ruling and 2 pieces on the reactions - similarities to Short Creek expressed - a fairly scary parallel.
Court: Texas had no right to take polygamists' children
http://www.cnn.com/2008/CRIME/05/22/flds.ruling/index.html
Excerpts
The state of Texas should not have removed children from a polygamist sect's ranch because it didn't prove that they were in "imminent danger," an appeals court ruled Thursday.
In the ruling, a three-judge panel did not order that the children be returned to their families on the Yearning for Zion Ranch in Eldorado, Texas.
Instead, the judges gave the lower court 10 days to vacate an order placing the children in state custody.
--------------------------------------------
Members of the YFZ community said they were "extremely grateful" for the court's ruling, but acknowledged the long road ahead.
The state can still appeal the decision or renew the investigation.
---------------------------------------------
The law grants the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services the authority to take emergency possession of a child if authorities have reason to suspect that there is an "immediate danger to the physical health or safety," warranting their immediate removal.
---------------------------------------------
After interviewing five minors who were or had been pregnant, CPS removed all of the children, based on the assumption that the community's belief system allowed minor females to marry and bear children, lawyers for the women argued.
"The department's lead investigator was of the opinion that due to the 'pervasive belief system' of the FLDS, the male children are groomed to be perpetrators of sexual abuse and the girls are raised to be victims of sexual abuse," the ruling noted.
---------------------------------------------
After the state took custody of the children, the mothers appealed the order on the grounds the department failed to establish that the need for protection was urgent.
Because no such proof was presented, the mothers argued that the district court, which backed the raid, abused its discretion and was obligated to return the children to their parents.
The appeals panel agreed.
"Evidence that children raised in this particular environment may someday have their physical health and safety threatened is not evidence that the danger is imminent enough to warrant invoking the extreme measure of immediate removal prior to full litigation of the issue," the panel wrote.
---------------------------------------------
Surrounded by the FLDS mothers represented in the case, Balovich said authorities considered the YFZ Ranch one household, an assertion with which the appeals court did not agree.
Therefore, proving that there was abuse in one household did not mean the state could apply that behavior to the entire ranch.
Texas' FLDS case rejected: 'Simply no evidence'
http://www.sltrib.com/utah/ci_9347022
Excerpt
It is not yet clear how soon FLDS children could return to the YFZ Ranch. Possible scenarios:
* The ruling by the 3rd Court of Appeals goes into effect immediately. If 51st District Judge Barbara Walther does not vacate her order putting the children in state custody, the appeals court will release the children.
* Meanwhile, the Department of Family and Protective Services could decide to comply with the appellate ruling, sending some or all of the children back.
* The agency could instead seek a stay.
* It may also, within 15 days, seek a rehearing before the appeals court. That appeal could be narrowed to only children it believes can be proven to be in danger.
Appeals court returns kids to YFZ sect
http://metrocolumnistsblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2008/05/appeals-court-returns-kids-to.html
Excerpt
But I hope this isn't a singal that Texas intends to turn its back and allow the polygamous FLDS sect to go right back to operating as a closed and secret society operating outside the rules of law and of civilized society.
Sadly, that's what happened in 1953, when the state of Arizona was so widely condemned for the so-called "Short Creek" raid on the same polygamous sect in what is now the community of Colorado City that it turned a blind eye to what was going on there for the next 50 years.
Court order shocking to woman who fled sect
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/life/religion/5797658.html
Excerpt
Her poise gone, Carolyn Jessop stood shaking slightly before the group of 50 or so foster care and social workers that she had come to advise.
"I just can't believe they are just sending them back," she said, her tears now noticeable. "That everyone can pretend that the abuse didn't happen."
Just moments before, Jessop had been fielding questions on everything from sartorial preferences to systems of power and dominance among the children born into the Fundamentalist Church of Latter Day Saints, a polygamist sect she fled in 2003.
Court: Texas had no right to take polygamists' children
http://www.cnn.com/2008/CRIME/05/22/flds.ruling/index.html
Excerpts
The state of Texas should not have removed children from a polygamist sect's ranch because it didn't prove that they were in "imminent danger," an appeals court ruled Thursday.
In the ruling, a three-judge panel did not order that the children be returned to their families on the Yearning for Zion Ranch in Eldorado, Texas.
Instead, the judges gave the lower court 10 days to vacate an order placing the children in state custody.
--------------------------------------------
Members of the YFZ community said they were "extremely grateful" for the court's ruling, but acknowledged the long road ahead.
The state can still appeal the decision or renew the investigation.
---------------------------------------------
The law grants the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services the authority to take emergency possession of a child if authorities have reason to suspect that there is an "immediate danger to the physical health or safety," warranting their immediate removal.
---------------------------------------------
After interviewing five minors who were or had been pregnant, CPS removed all of the children, based on the assumption that the community's belief system allowed minor females to marry and bear children, lawyers for the women argued.
"The department's lead investigator was of the opinion that due to the 'pervasive belief system' of the FLDS, the male children are groomed to be perpetrators of sexual abuse and the girls are raised to be victims of sexual abuse," the ruling noted.
---------------------------------------------
After the state took custody of the children, the mothers appealed the order on the grounds the department failed to establish that the need for protection was urgent.
Because no such proof was presented, the mothers argued that the district court, which backed the raid, abused its discretion and was obligated to return the children to their parents.
The appeals panel agreed.
"Evidence that children raised in this particular environment may someday have their physical health and safety threatened is not evidence that the danger is imminent enough to warrant invoking the extreme measure of immediate removal prior to full litigation of the issue," the panel wrote.
---------------------------------------------
Surrounded by the FLDS mothers represented in the case, Balovich said authorities considered the YFZ Ranch one household, an assertion with which the appeals court did not agree.
Therefore, proving that there was abuse in one household did not mean the state could apply that behavior to the entire ranch.
Texas' FLDS case rejected: 'Simply no evidence'
http://www.sltrib.com/utah/ci_9347022
Excerpt
It is not yet clear how soon FLDS children could return to the YFZ Ranch. Possible scenarios:
* The ruling by the 3rd Court of Appeals goes into effect immediately. If 51st District Judge Barbara Walther does not vacate her order putting the children in state custody, the appeals court will release the children.
* Meanwhile, the Department of Family and Protective Services could decide to comply with the appellate ruling, sending some or all of the children back.
* The agency could instead seek a stay.
* It may also, within 15 days, seek a rehearing before the appeals court. That appeal could be narrowed to only children it believes can be proven to be in danger.
Appeals court returns kids to YFZ sect
http://metrocolumnistsblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2008/05/appeals-court-returns-kids-to.html
Excerpt
But I hope this isn't a singal that Texas intends to turn its back and allow the polygamous FLDS sect to go right back to operating as a closed and secret society operating outside the rules of law and of civilized society.
Sadly, that's what happened in 1953, when the state of Arizona was so widely condemned for the so-called "Short Creek" raid on the same polygamous sect in what is now the community of Colorado City that it turned a blind eye to what was going on there for the next 50 years.
Court order shocking to woman who fled sect
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/life/religion/5797658.html
Excerpt
Her poise gone, Carolyn Jessop stood shaking slightly before the group of 50 or so foster care and social workers that she had come to advise.
"I just can't believe they are just sending them back," she said, her tears now noticeable. "That everyone can pretend that the abuse didn't happen."
Just moments before, Jessop had been fielding questions on everything from sartorial preferences to systems of power and dominance among the children born into the Fundamentalist Church of Latter Day Saints, a polygamist sect she fled in 2003.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Jeffs sentenced, CPS shunned @ ranch, & more custody talk
Sect father wants his children back
http://www.necn.com/Boston/Nation/Sect-father-wants-his-children-back-/1211377634.html
Excerpt
(NECN/ABC) - A father involved in a polygamist sect in Texas wants his children back. Dan Jessop says the life he knew has taken a dramatic turn over the past six weeks.
"I'm trying to get somebody to listen to me that I am an innocent man. I haven't done any of these bad things that they say I've done."
The father of three says after the raid his wife and newborn were moved to a shelter in San Antonio. His four year old daughter and two year old son are in foster care in Austin.
Police back at FLDS ranch but only to serve documents; teen denies allegations she is pregnant
http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,700227858,00.html
Excerpt
ELDORADO, Texas — Texas Child Protective Services workers are at the gates of the Yearning For Zion Ranch attempting to serve more court papers related to the massive custody case involving children seized from the property of the Fundamentalist LDS Church.Schleicher
County Sheriff David Doran told the Deseret News his office is merely accompanying CPS workers while they serve the documents.
"We just sent a marked unit to the gate," the sheriff explained, referring any additional questions to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.
Forty-five miles away, a handful of FLDS men bolted from the courthouse in San Angelo after receiving word that law enforcement was at the ranch's gate. Rumors were flying at the courthouse that police had returned to the ranch to search for more children.
Earlier this morning at the courthouse, a lawyer for a 14-year-old girl that is on a list of so-called "disputed minors" said she is not pregnant as Texas child welfare authorities have alleged.
"My client does not have children. (She) is not pregnant. She's the youngest on the list of disputed minors," said Andrea Sloan.
FLDS shun Texas officials twice at ranch
http://www.sltrib.com/ci_9343002
Excerpt
ELDORADO, Texas - Texas child welfare officials returned to a polygamous sect's ranch twice Wednesday because they had "new information" that children were there but were not allowed on the property.
Two Child Protective Service (CPS) workers, accompanied by a Schleicher County Sheriff's deputy, first asked to be let on the YFZ Ranch shortly before noon Wednesday.
The workers told Guy Jessop, who met them at the gate, they were "looking for more children" but he refused to let them enter without a search warrant.
News of the visit reached the Tom Green County Courthouse, where the third day of status hearings for about 450 FLDS children was under way. Several FLDS spokesmen - and media - made a mad dash to the ranch, whose residents are members of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
CPS officials spoke with FLDS member Willie Jessop after being rebuffed and were told he would allow them on the ranch, according to spokeswoman Marleigh Meisner.
Investigators returned to the ranch at about 6 p.m. but Willie Jessop met them at the gate and turned them away, she said.
Willie Jessop said ranch residents would allow authorities to investigate any legitimate claims of abuse. "If they have an honest complaint, we'll be honest, but we were lied to," he said, noting that authorities have never produced the teenage girl whose allegations of abuse led the state to remove all children from the ranch in April.
Jessop said he does not know whether there are children at the 1,700-acre property, which includes 19 separate residential buildings. If there are, they would have arrived with parents who came to comfort relatives in the wake of the April raid, he said.
Warren Jeffs Sentenced to 10 Years to Life
http://www.newsoxy.com/tech/warren_jeffs_sentenced_to_10_years_to_life/article10176.htm
Excerpt
Warren Jeffs, who was considered a prophet by his church of breakaway Mormons, was sentenced to 10 years to life in prison on Tuesday for being an accomplice to rape by forcing a 14-year-old to marry her cousin.
A Utah court said Jeffs' sentence was subordinate to review by the state board of pardons, which will ultimately determine how much time he serves.
Jeffs, 51, was convicted in September of two counts of rape as an accomplice in the 2001 arranged marriage of a 14-year-old follower and her 19-year-old cousin.
http://www.necn.com/Boston/Nation/Sect-father-wants-his-children-back-/1211377634.html
Excerpt
(NECN/ABC) - A father involved in a polygamist sect in Texas wants his children back. Dan Jessop says the life he knew has taken a dramatic turn over the past six weeks.
"I'm trying to get somebody to listen to me that I am an innocent man. I haven't done any of these bad things that they say I've done."
The father of three says after the raid his wife and newborn were moved to a shelter in San Antonio. His four year old daughter and two year old son are in foster care in Austin.
Police back at FLDS ranch but only to serve documents; teen denies allegations she is pregnant
http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,700227858,00.html
Excerpt
ELDORADO, Texas — Texas Child Protective Services workers are at the gates of the Yearning For Zion Ranch attempting to serve more court papers related to the massive custody case involving children seized from the property of the Fundamentalist LDS Church.Schleicher
County Sheriff David Doran told the Deseret News his office is merely accompanying CPS workers while they serve the documents.
"We just sent a marked unit to the gate," the sheriff explained, referring any additional questions to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.
Forty-five miles away, a handful of FLDS men bolted from the courthouse in San Angelo after receiving word that law enforcement was at the ranch's gate. Rumors were flying at the courthouse that police had returned to the ranch to search for more children.
Earlier this morning at the courthouse, a lawyer for a 14-year-old girl that is on a list of so-called "disputed minors" said she is not pregnant as Texas child welfare authorities have alleged.
"My client does not have children. (She) is not pregnant. She's the youngest on the list of disputed minors," said Andrea Sloan.
FLDS shun Texas officials twice at ranch
http://www.sltrib.com/ci_9343002
Excerpt
ELDORADO, Texas - Texas child welfare officials returned to a polygamous sect's ranch twice Wednesday because they had "new information" that children were there but were not allowed on the property.
Two Child Protective Service (CPS) workers, accompanied by a Schleicher County Sheriff's deputy, first asked to be let on the YFZ Ranch shortly before noon Wednesday.
The workers told Guy Jessop, who met them at the gate, they were "looking for more children" but he refused to let them enter without a search warrant.
News of the visit reached the Tom Green County Courthouse, where the third day of status hearings for about 450 FLDS children was under way. Several FLDS spokesmen - and media - made a mad dash to the ranch, whose residents are members of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
CPS officials spoke with FLDS member Willie Jessop after being rebuffed and were told he would allow them on the ranch, according to spokeswoman Marleigh Meisner.
Investigators returned to the ranch at about 6 p.m. but Willie Jessop met them at the gate and turned them away, she said.
Willie Jessop said ranch residents would allow authorities to investigate any legitimate claims of abuse. "If they have an honest complaint, we'll be honest, but we were lied to," he said, noting that authorities have never produced the teenage girl whose allegations of abuse led the state to remove all children from the ranch in April.
Jessop said he does not know whether there are children at the 1,700-acre property, which includes 19 separate residential buildings. If there are, they would have arrived with parents who came to comfort relatives in the wake of the April raid, he said.
Warren Jeffs Sentenced to 10 Years to Life
http://www.newsoxy.com/tech/warren_jeffs_sentenced_to_10_years_to_life/article10176.htm
Excerpt
Warren Jeffs, who was considered a prophet by his church of breakaway Mormons, was sentenced to 10 years to life in prison on Tuesday for being an accomplice to rape by forcing a 14-year-old to marry her cousin.
A Utah court said Jeffs' sentence was subordinate to review by the state board of pardons, which will ultimately determine how much time he serves.
Jeffs, 51, was convicted in September of two counts of rape as an accomplice in the 2001 arranged marriage of a 14-year-old follower and her 19-year-old cousin.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Hearings, More Moms are Adults, & Guardian Alternatives
FLDS Hearings: Update from courtroom E
http://ac360.blogs.cnn.com/2008/05/20/flds-hearings-update-from-courtroom-e/
Excerpt
From a pool reporter inside the courtroom
2 cases so far:
Case #12 ½ year old girl
Case #215 year old boy
The father in this case is believed to be in charge of YFZ ranch while Warren Jeffs was in jail.
FLDS hearings: Texas' case weakens as moms turn out adults
http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_9330822
Excerpt
SAN ANGELO, Texas - An underpinning of the state's case for taking hundreds of FLDS children into custody continued to weaken Tuesday as officials acknowledged four more women whose ages were disputed are adults - including one who is 27.
Still to come: The state was prepared to admit one additional mother was an adult, but her hearing was postponed. Four women had been deemed adults before Tuesday; other women's hearings have yet to come up in court.
The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services has maintained a "pervasive pattern" of underage marriages justified removing all children from the YFZ Ranch and their parents, members of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
It specifically claimed that 31 girls between the ages of 14 and 17 were pregnant, mothers or both - a tally that originally included 26 women whose ages were in dispute.
One case that supports the state's claim was postponed Tuesday: that of 17-year-old Suzanne Johnson, who is eight months pregnant and has a 16-month-old child.
But now, 17 women are left in the disputed-age group, and one attorney expressed outrage Tuesday about the state's tactics in dealing with the mothers.
I dunno, I don't get it. If the women turned out to be over 18 but still has a child who definitely was born when she was under 18, isn't that the same difference? They were still a child bride upon "marriage" and still was a victim of statutory rape, right?
Relatives outside sect seek custody in Texas case
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5iIdMpRHjN4hpNKBhfYyAsR4DDo4QD90PU9G00
Excerpt
On Tuesday, two men excommunicated by the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, which runs the ranch where about 460 children now in foster care once lived, offered to serve as guardians for their children if the state deems their mothers unfit.
http://ac360.blogs.cnn.com/2008/05/20/flds-hearings-update-from-courtroom-e/
Excerpt
From a pool reporter inside the courtroom
2 cases so far:
Case #12 ½ year old girl
Case #215 year old boy
The father in this case is believed to be in charge of YFZ ranch while Warren Jeffs was in jail.
FLDS hearings: Texas' case weakens as moms turn out adults
http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_9330822
Excerpt
SAN ANGELO, Texas - An underpinning of the state's case for taking hundreds of FLDS children into custody continued to weaken Tuesday as officials acknowledged four more women whose ages were disputed are adults - including one who is 27.
Still to come: The state was prepared to admit one additional mother was an adult, but her hearing was postponed. Four women had been deemed adults before Tuesday; other women's hearings have yet to come up in court.
The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services has maintained a "pervasive pattern" of underage marriages justified removing all children from the YFZ Ranch and their parents, members of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
It specifically claimed that 31 girls between the ages of 14 and 17 were pregnant, mothers or both - a tally that originally included 26 women whose ages were in dispute.
One case that supports the state's claim was postponed Tuesday: that of 17-year-old Suzanne Johnson, who is eight months pregnant and has a 16-month-old child.
But now, 17 women are left in the disputed-age group, and one attorney expressed outrage Tuesday about the state's tactics in dealing with the mothers.
I dunno, I don't get it. If the women turned out to be over 18 but still has a child who definitely was born when she was under 18, isn't that the same difference? They were still a child bride upon "marriage" and still was a victim of statutory rape, right?
Relatives outside sect seek custody in Texas case
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5iIdMpRHjN4hpNKBhfYyAsR4DDo4QD90PU9G00
Excerpt
On Tuesday, two men excommunicated by the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, which runs the ranch where about 460 children now in foster care once lived, offered to serve as guardians for their children if the state deems their mothers unfit.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Hearing continue and prove confusing
Its all about the court hearings now. Obviously confusing, the cases slowly but surely move forward.
Texas hearings: Few answers for FLDS parents: http://origin.sltrib.com/ci_9310669
Excerpt
The hearings continue today in five courtrooms in the Tom Green County courthouse.
But it took just a day to see how the nation's largest child custody investigation is straining the Texas system and parents - primarily mothers - of the 461 children taken from the polygamous sect.
On Monday, most caseworkers said they had not met with the women until arriving at court. Mixed-up names and case reports slowed some hearings; others were held up because attorneys had cases in different courtrooms.
Another article on the same topic with an emphasis on Jeffs' kids.
Children of FLDS 'prophet' kept in foster homes
http://www.cnn.com/2008/CRIME/05/19/polygamist.retreat/?iref=mpstoryview
Monday, May 19, 2008
Cases Begin, Attorneys Speak & a Victorious Mom
The emphasis seems to now be on getting the kids back to their moms if these moms can somehow figure out how to raise them w/o exposing them to abuse. I think all people watching this case would like for the kids to be with their parents, but the skeptical ones would like to know that the kids are out of harms way for sure - even if that means families leaving the FLDS.
Individual cases begin Monday for polygamist sect
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5iIdMpRHjN4hpNKBhfYyAsR4DDo4QD90ON9A00
Excerpt
SAN ANTONIO (AP) — The more than 400 children, from newborns to teens, forced from a polygamist sect's sprawling ranch during a raid six weeks ago and into foster care have been treated as a single group of abused and at-risk kids.
Starting Monday, judges will filter the unruly, chaotic custody dispute into hundreds of individual cases to determine what the parents must do to get their children back or whether their parental rights will be permanently severed.
This is standard operating procedure for family court, but these are hardly standard cases.
First, these families are comprised of at least 168 mothers and 69 fathers, reflecting the polygamy in the renegade Mormon sect.
And even as the hearings begin, the state hasn't matched more than 100 of the children with mothers. The first of court-ordered DNA test results won't be back for two to four weeks.
Two dozen of the children may actually be adults; authorities are still trying to sort out whether nearly half the teen girls they've had in foster care facilities are actually adults. Last week, they conceded two women who gave birth since the raid are actually 18 and 22.
Attorneys want FLDS children treated as individuals in court
http://www.sltrib.com/lds/ci_9295315
Excerpt
"They are still relying on the 'one household' theory," objects Laura Shockley, a Dallas attorney who represents a minor of disputed age and several other children.
The plans describe physical, sexual and emotional abuse the state says children taken from the sect's YFZ Ranch experienced.
That evidence: a "large number" of girls ages 14 to 17 who have children or are pregnant; "several" instances of broken bones that are suspicious for physical abuse or neglect; "possible" sexual abuse of young boys; apparent exclusion of older boys from the ranch; a "pattern of deception" in disclosing family relationships; and concerns about the children's homeschooling.
The department has said that 31 of 53 girls ages 14 to 17 are pregnant or mothers but has not released specifics. The group includes five teenagers and 26 women whose ages are in dispute -- two of whom the state now agrees are adults.
Pamela Jessop, who gave birth April 29 to her second child, was listed as "15 or 16" in a May filing related to taking custody of her newborn. A different document, filed in April, had said she was 18, as officials now acknowledge.
They also agree Louisa Jessop, who gave birth last Monday to her third child, is 22 years old.
Both women are in monogamous marriages and their attorneys say none of the state's allegations fit their situations.
But the state, as laid out in the service plans, maintains that the couples and other FLDS parents "have chosen to be members of a community that appears to support systemic abuse of children." And CPS workers have the backing of Texas Gov. Rick Perry, who praised them last week for handling the complex case "professionally and compassionately."
FLDS mother victorious in court
http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,700226749,00.html
Excerpt
Pamela Jeffs Jessop's eyes sparkled and she smiled as she walked out of the Tom Green County Courthouse Friday."I love to be with my children," she said meekly.
The 18-year-old has secured a few more rights over her newborn baby than other members of the Fundamentalist LDS Church have over their children, her attorneys said Friday.
Jessop was in court for a hearing over the custody of her baby boy, born April 29. It was to be an adversarial hearing, where Texas child welfare officials entered evidence of abuse and sought to retain sole custody of her baby.
"We have reached an agreement," said Eric Tai, a lawyer for the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. He announced in court, "The department will be a temporary conservator of baby boy Jeffs. Since the mom is under 21, she will be placed with both of her children in a place to be determined."
Jessop also was named a possessor and a conservator over her child, said her attorney, Natalie Malonis.
Individual cases begin Monday for polygamist sect
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5iIdMpRHjN4hpNKBhfYyAsR4DDo4QD90ON9A00
Excerpt
SAN ANTONIO (AP) — The more than 400 children, from newborns to teens, forced from a polygamist sect's sprawling ranch during a raid six weeks ago and into foster care have been treated as a single group of abused and at-risk kids.
Starting Monday, judges will filter the unruly, chaotic custody dispute into hundreds of individual cases to determine what the parents must do to get their children back or whether their parental rights will be permanently severed.
This is standard operating procedure for family court, but these are hardly standard cases.
First, these families are comprised of at least 168 mothers and 69 fathers, reflecting the polygamy in the renegade Mormon sect.
And even as the hearings begin, the state hasn't matched more than 100 of the children with mothers. The first of court-ordered DNA test results won't be back for two to four weeks.
Two dozen of the children may actually be adults; authorities are still trying to sort out whether nearly half the teen girls they've had in foster care facilities are actually adults. Last week, they conceded two women who gave birth since the raid are actually 18 and 22.
Attorneys want FLDS children treated as individuals in court
http://www.sltrib.com/lds/ci_9295315
Excerpt
"They are still relying on the 'one household' theory," objects Laura Shockley, a Dallas attorney who represents a minor of disputed age and several other children.
The plans describe physical, sexual and emotional abuse the state says children taken from the sect's YFZ Ranch experienced.
That evidence: a "large number" of girls ages 14 to 17 who have children or are pregnant; "several" instances of broken bones that are suspicious for physical abuse or neglect; "possible" sexual abuse of young boys; apparent exclusion of older boys from the ranch; a "pattern of deception" in disclosing family relationships; and concerns about the children's homeschooling.
The department has said that 31 of 53 girls ages 14 to 17 are pregnant or mothers but has not released specifics. The group includes five teenagers and 26 women whose ages are in dispute -- two of whom the state now agrees are adults.
Pamela Jessop, who gave birth April 29 to her second child, was listed as "15 or 16" in a May filing related to taking custody of her newborn. A different document, filed in April, had said she was 18, as officials now acknowledge.
They also agree Louisa Jessop, who gave birth last Monday to her third child, is 22 years old.
Both women are in monogamous marriages and their attorneys say none of the state's allegations fit their situations.
But the state, as laid out in the service plans, maintains that the couples and other FLDS parents "have chosen to be members of a community that appears to support systemic abuse of children." And CPS workers have the backing of Texas Gov. Rick Perry, who praised them last week for handling the complex case "professionally and compassionately."
FLDS mother victorious in court
http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,700226749,00.html
Excerpt
Pamela Jeffs Jessop's eyes sparkled and she smiled as she walked out of the Tom Green County Courthouse Friday."I love to be with my children," she said meekly.
The 18-year-old has secured a few more rights over her newborn baby than other members of the Fundamentalist LDS Church have over their children, her attorneys said Friday.
Jessop was in court for a hearing over the custody of her baby boy, born April 29. It was to be an adversarial hearing, where Texas child welfare officials entered evidence of abuse and sought to retain sole custody of her baby.
"We have reached an agreement," said Eric Tai, a lawyer for the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. He announced in court, "The department will be a temporary conservator of baby boy Jeffs. Since the mom is under 21, she will be placed with both of her children in a place to be determined."
Jessop also was named a possessor and a conservator over her child, said her attorney, Natalie Malonis.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Habeas Corpus, Hair, The plan, Their costs & TX's costs
FLDS Fathers fight to gain their children back
http://ac360.blogs.cnn.com/2008/05/14/flds-fathers-fight-to-gain-their-children-back/
Excerpt
The FLDS is fighting back after last month’s raid that removed more than 400 children from its Texas compound after accusations of forced marriages and sex with underage girls.
The writ of habeas corpus, used to test the legality of a person’s detention, is being filed in San Angelo, Texas on behalf of 3 of the fathers with the FLDS.
I wanted to share another document with you.
Their claim is that they are monogamous families living in single-family residences on the compound… when their children were abducted
FLDS - For Lack (of) Different Styles (A funny piece!)
http://mockingwords.blogspot.com/2008/05/flds-for-lack-of-different-styles.html
Excerpt
There seems to be a great deal of interest in the FLDS and their hair. I can only assume it is because those of us not living behind a walled off religious compound (ie, the public) have seen images, (such as those below) in the news lately, and have had a response similar to that of Robin Roberts (shown on the left) as she was interviewing three of the women back in April.
FLDS reunification (service) plan
http://www.thussayssuzanne.com/2008/05/flds-reunificat.html
Excerpt
Since this situation started I've been outlining what the service plan will be. Details of what is being included in the plan are coming to light:
Polygamist sect's finances are murky
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5jB15XvmkCoB58AwAP9Jb3fZjrymwD90MJHH83
Excerpt
In just five years, the West Texas polygamist sect transformed 1,700 acres of scrubland purchased for $700,000 into a bustling ranch with a blazing-white limestone temple, sprawling three-story log cabins, woodworking shops and a dairy.
Assessed value of the property now: $20.5 million. (um, assuming anyone would pay that!!!)
How did members of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints do it?
Sweat equity was clearly one factor. The men quarried limestone themselves from the hard ground and built the enormous homes with their own hands, using skills learned at construction companies close to the sect's main base of operations, on the Arizona-Utah line.
But as for where they got the money for building materials, dump trucks, rock-cutting equipment and other supplies, that is still something of a mystery.
"Who funded it? We're investigating. That's for dang sure," said Jeff Shields, a court-appointed lawyer studying the sect's finances.
Texas FLDS Raid Early Costs
http://lonestartimes.com/2008/05/16/texas-flds-raid-early-costs/
Excerpt
The Austin American Statesman filed a TPIA request related to the costs of the raid in Eldorado.
The massive child welfare operation that began in early April with a state raid of a West Texas ranch owned by a polygamous sect cost nearly $7.5 million in the first 19 days, according to records from Gov. Rick Perry’s office.
A spokeswoman for Perry cautioned that the numbers — obtained through the Texas Public Information Act — are preliminary and unaudited, and Perry’s office has yet to release official costs.
But the numbers do reveal clues about the financial impact of what Texas officials have said is the largest removal of children in U.S. history.
http://ac360.blogs.cnn.com/2008/05/14/flds-fathers-fight-to-gain-their-children-back/
Excerpt
The FLDS is fighting back after last month’s raid that removed more than 400 children from its Texas compound after accusations of forced marriages and sex with underage girls.
The writ of habeas corpus, used to test the legality of a person’s detention, is being filed in San Angelo, Texas on behalf of 3 of the fathers with the FLDS.
I wanted to share another document with you.
Their claim is that they are monogamous families living in single-family residences on the compound… when their children were abducted
FLDS - For Lack (of) Different Styles (A funny piece!)
http://mockingwords.blogspot.com/2008/05/flds-for-lack-of-different-styles.html
Excerpt
There seems to be a great deal of interest in the FLDS and their hair. I can only assume it is because those of us not living behind a walled off religious compound (ie, the public) have seen images, (such as those below) in the news lately, and have had a response similar to that of Robin Roberts (shown on the left) as she was interviewing three of the women back in April.
FLDS reunification (service) plan
http://www.thussayssuzanne.com/2008/05/flds-reunificat.html
Excerpt
Since this situation started I've been outlining what the service plan will be. Details of what is being included in the plan are coming to light:
- The service plan goals say the parents will understand what abuse is and take steps to protect their children. They also ask parents to cooperate with DNA testing and providing identifying papers to establish paternity and family relationships.
- For parents, tasks include participating in parenting classes, psychiatric evaluations and following the recommendations of counselors.
- Establish safe living arrangements for children and provide verification to the department of living arrangements, including methods of support the family is receiving from all sources.
- If the judge is not satisfied that you can provide a safe place for your child where they are free from abuse, the judge may decide to limit or even permanently take away all of your rights as a parent of a child. The child then could be placed in permanent foster care or be adopted.
Polygamist sect's finances are murky
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5jB15XvmkCoB58AwAP9Jb3fZjrymwD90MJHH83
Excerpt
In just five years, the West Texas polygamist sect transformed 1,700 acres of scrubland purchased for $700,000 into a bustling ranch with a blazing-white limestone temple, sprawling three-story log cabins, woodworking shops and a dairy.
Assessed value of the property now: $20.5 million. (um, assuming anyone would pay that!!!)
How did members of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints do it?
Sweat equity was clearly one factor. The men quarried limestone themselves from the hard ground and built the enormous homes with their own hands, using skills learned at construction companies close to the sect's main base of operations, on the Arizona-Utah line.
But as for where they got the money for building materials, dump trucks, rock-cutting equipment and other supplies, that is still something of a mystery.
"Who funded it? We're investigating. That's for dang sure," said Jeff Shields, a court-appointed lawyer studying the sect's finances.
Texas FLDS Raid Early Costs
http://lonestartimes.com/2008/05/16/texas-flds-raid-early-costs/
Excerpt
The Austin American Statesman filed a TPIA request related to the costs of the raid in Eldorado.
The massive child welfare operation that began in early April with a state raid of a West Texas ranch owned by a polygamous sect cost nearly $7.5 million in the first 19 days, according to records from Gov. Rick Perry’s office.
A spokeswoman for Perry cautioned that the numbers — obtained through the Texas Public Information Act — are preliminary and unaudited, and Perry’s office has yet to release official costs.
But the numbers do reveal clues about the financial impact of what Texas officials have said is the largest removal of children in U.S. history.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Reuniting Plans, Nother Book, Nursing infant, & Canada
A few exciting stories for today! More talk on plants to reunite parents and children and what the parents have to change (is it not obvious?!) . Another book from a former FLDS, Stolen Innocence. An interesting development on custody rights as a couple is allowed to keep their breast feeding infant. And finally, Canada begins to work on their own FLDS issues.
Plans for FLDS families are not so individual
http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,700225988,00.html
Excerpt
Individual family service plans for the children taken into state protective custody in the raid on the Fundamentalist LDS Church's YFZ Ranch are expected to be filed in a Texas court beginning today. But just how "individual" those plans are is in question.
The plans, which are supposed to include input from the children, their parents and Texas Child Protective Services on what it will take to reunite a parent with a child, are being filed under a Friday deadline. Individual status hearings for the 464 children in state protective custody are scheduled before five judges in San Angelo on Monday.
Former under-age polygamous bride tells all in book
http://origin.sltrib.com/news/ci_9251450
Excerpt
Months after helping to send Warren S. Jeffs to prison, Elissa Wall is telling her story in a book she hopes will lead women and girls to leave his polygamous sect.
Stolen Innocence debuts amid a child custody battle in Texas involving the polygamous lifestyle and marriage practices of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
Wall was traveling Tuesday to New York for an exclusive appearance on the "Oprah" show, according to Roger Hoole, her attorney.
Texas Barred From Taking Infant Seized in FLDS Raid; Perry & Haas Secure TRO
http://sev.prnewswire.com/legal/20080514/LAW05014052008-1.html
Excerpt
A District Judge here on Tuesday barred the state from taking a nursing infant away from its mother when he turns one on Thursday -- a major victory for one couple whose children were seized last month from a fundamentalist Mormon ranch in Eldorado, TX.
(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080514/LAW050)
Judge Michael Peden also ordered the state to disclose the location of the couple's older two children, ordered that the parents be allowed daily supervised visits with them, and set a full hearing on whether the state has the right to keep the children at all on May 23.
Canadian polygamist sect is under pressure after raids
http://www.bnd.com/news/world/story/340732.html
Plans for FLDS families are not so individual
http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,700225988,00.html
Excerpt
Individual family service plans for the children taken into state protective custody in the raid on the Fundamentalist LDS Church's YFZ Ranch are expected to be filed in a Texas court beginning today. But just how "individual" those plans are is in question.
The plans, which are supposed to include input from the children, their parents and Texas Child Protective Services on what it will take to reunite a parent with a child, are being filed under a Friday deadline. Individual status hearings for the 464 children in state protective custody are scheduled before five judges in San Angelo on Monday.
Former under-age polygamous bride tells all in book
http://origin.sltrib.com/news/ci_9251450
Excerpt
Months after helping to send Warren S. Jeffs to prison, Elissa Wall is telling her story in a book she hopes will lead women and girls to leave his polygamous sect.
Stolen Innocence debuts amid a child custody battle in Texas involving the polygamous lifestyle and marriage practices of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
Wall was traveling Tuesday to New York for an exclusive appearance on the "Oprah" show, according to Roger Hoole, her attorney.
Texas Barred From Taking Infant Seized in FLDS Raid; Perry & Haas Secure TRO
http://sev.prnewswire.com/legal/20080514/LAW05014052008-1.html
Excerpt
A District Judge here on Tuesday barred the state from taking a nursing infant away from its mother when he turns one on Thursday -- a major victory for one couple whose children were seized last month from a fundamentalist Mormon ranch in Eldorado, TX.
(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080514/LAW050)
Judge Michael Peden also ordered the state to disclose the location of the couple's older two children, ordered that the parents be allowed daily supervised visits with them, and set a full hearing on whether the state has the right to keep the children at all on May 23.
Canadian polygamist sect is under pressure after raids
http://www.bnd.com/news/world/story/340732.html
Excerpt
Many residents in this parallel community, which includes about 500 American citizens, share those same beliefs -- that you take many wives and live a communal lifestyle -- but prosecutors have not moved in to take action.Yet.
British Columbia's Attorney General Wally Oppal told The Associated Press he plans to arrest someone on a polygamy charge or ask the courts to weigh in on Bountiful's legal standing within the month.
"Something must be done," he said. "I personally feel, and our government feels, that it would be inappropriate to do nothing."
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Oprah, Nother baby, Records, Adults & Yahweh
Forced to Marry at 14: Lisa Ling's Special Report on Polygamy Continues
http://www2.oprah.com/tows/pastshows/200805/tows_past_20080514.jhtml?promocode=HP11
WATCH THE VIDEOS!
This is showing today on the Oprah show! Hope you can watch!
Excerpt
A 14-year-old girl is forced to marry her cousin, but escapes. Where is she now? Lisa Ling reports from inside a polygamous sect's compound.
Second sect baby born in state custody
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/APStories/stories/D90KEVM80.html
Excerpt
An FLDS woman whose age is disputed by Texas officials gave birth in Austin around noon today to a son - and hours later her attorney won a ruling preventing authorities from moving her immediately to San Antonio.
Austin State District Judge Orlinda Naranjo granted a temporary restraining order to prevent the Texas Department of Family and Protective services from moving Louisa Jessop and her newborn to San Antonio this evening, according to Rod Parker, an FLDS spokesman and Salt Lake City attorney.
Louisa Bradshaw Jessop maintains she is 22, but the department has her classified as 17. She has two other children, ages 3 and 2, and is in state custody with them after an April 3 raid on her home, the YFZ Ranch in Eldorado.
Bishop's Records Offer Rare Look Inside Polygamist Families
http://www.newswest9.com/Global/story.asp?S=8293737&nav=menu505_2
Excerpt
The Associated Press reports the bishop's records offer a peek into an intricate culture in which men related to the sect's prophet -- Warren Jeffs -- enjoyed favored-husband status.
An AP analysis shows that by the time a girl reached 16, she was more likely to be married than to live as a child in her father's household.
The bishop's records, released by court officials last week, include 37 families totaling 507 individuals.
FLDS mother declared an adult
http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,700225532,00.html
Excerpt
Texas authorities no longer believe that a woman who gave birth to a child in state protective custody is a minor herself.
Lawyers for the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services acknowledged in a hearing in San Angelo on Tuesday that the young woman is legally an adult.
"We received information — credible information — and we now believe this woman who was believed to be a minor in question, is in fact, an adult," said Texas Child Protective Services spokeswoman Marleigh Meisner.
However, she will still remain in custody alongside her baby boy, who was born in San Marcos on April 29.
Texas authorities investigate more polygamy charges
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5hdtkEy-_-VDCktXIbtlDTH-UD2gQD90KTQB80
Excerpt
But this isn't the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints' ranch, which authorities raided last month in Eldorado after receiving reports that underage girls were being forced to marry much older men.
This is the House of Yahweh: a different, even darker sect that the state has been investigating for years. Authorities in February charged the group's 73-year-old leader with performing polygamous weddings and forcing about 40 children — some as young as 11 — to work jobs at his 44-acre compound.
http://www2.oprah.com/tows/pastshows/200805/tows_past_20080514.jhtml?promocode=HP11
WATCH THE VIDEOS!
This is showing today on the Oprah show! Hope you can watch!
Excerpt
A 14-year-old girl is forced to marry her cousin, but escapes. Where is she now? Lisa Ling reports from inside a polygamous sect's compound.
Second sect baby born in state custody
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/APStories/stories/D90KEVM80.html
Excerpt
An FLDS woman whose age is disputed by Texas officials gave birth in Austin around noon today to a son - and hours later her attorney won a ruling preventing authorities from moving her immediately to San Antonio.
Austin State District Judge Orlinda Naranjo granted a temporary restraining order to prevent the Texas Department of Family and Protective services from moving Louisa Jessop and her newborn to San Antonio this evening, according to Rod Parker, an FLDS spokesman and Salt Lake City attorney.
Louisa Bradshaw Jessop maintains she is 22, but the department has her classified as 17. She has two other children, ages 3 and 2, and is in state custody with them after an April 3 raid on her home, the YFZ Ranch in Eldorado.
Bishop's Records Offer Rare Look Inside Polygamist Families
http://www.newswest9.com/Global/story.asp?S=8293737&nav=menu505_2
Excerpt
The Associated Press reports the bishop's records offer a peek into an intricate culture in which men related to the sect's prophet -- Warren Jeffs -- enjoyed favored-husband status.
An AP analysis shows that by the time a girl reached 16, she was more likely to be married than to live as a child in her father's household.
The bishop's records, released by court officials last week, include 37 families totaling 507 individuals.
FLDS mother declared an adult
http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,700225532,00.html
Excerpt
Texas authorities no longer believe that a woman who gave birth to a child in state protective custody is a minor herself.
Lawyers for the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services acknowledged in a hearing in San Angelo on Tuesday that the young woman is legally an adult.
"We received information — credible information — and we now believe this woman who was believed to be a minor in question, is in fact, an adult," said Texas Child Protective Services spokeswoman Marleigh Meisner.
However, she will still remain in custody alongside her baby boy, who was born in San Marcos on April 29.
Texas authorities investigate more polygamy charges
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5hdtkEy-_-VDCktXIbtlDTH-UD2gQD90KTQB80
Excerpt
But this isn't the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints' ranch, which authorities raided last month in Eldorado after receiving reports that underage girls were being forced to marry much older men.
This is the House of Yahweh: a different, even darker sect that the state has been investigating for years. Authorities in February charged the group's 73-year-old leader with performing polygamous weddings and forcing about 40 children — some as young as 11 — to work jobs at his 44-acre compound.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Motherhood, A Letter, Dockstaders, Expulsion, & Custody (again)
You know, i really keep thinking "today will be the day when I have only 1 or 2 articels and I can really dive into them and have some convo about them". But no, today we have yet another handful of articles to explore, so lets get to it!
First, a simply amazing article by Carolyn Jessop, the author of Escape. Here, she defines what the role of a mother in the FLDS community is - and isn't.
Woman learns to be a mother outside FLDS
http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/viewpoints/articles/0511vip-jessop0511.html
Excerpts
As incredible as it might seem, I had to learn to kiss and hug my children again. I was always affectionate with my first child, Arthur. It came naturally to me. But in the FLDS, women are not supposed to show affection to their children. It's conferring value on an individual, and only the prophet and the head of the family are allowed to do that.
--------------------------------------------------
Some women manage to forge a connectedness, but many do not. Most children attach to another child for survival and protection like children do in orphanages.
May 13th
White House denies receiving letter from FLDS member
http://www.sltrib.com/ci_9235389
Excerpt
A White House official said Monday they had not received the letter that Willie Jessop, a member of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, told another newspaper he hand-delivered to Bush staffers.
May 12th
Today Show: Polygamy sect parents say state has scattered children
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24576081/
With Video!
Excerpt
The Dockstaders have a daughter who has a 2-year-old daughter of her own. They say their daughter is 23; CPS officials say she is 16. Nancy Dockstader said she has provided officials with a birth certificate and that her daughter has a valid Texas driver’s license showing that she is 23, but state officials have said they don’t believe her.
The Road to Eldorado: Expelled from the FLDS
http://www.swtexaslive.com/node/6857
Excerpt
Almost four years have passed since Holm was awarded 50/50 custody of his children by a judge in Kingman, Arizona, 250 miles away from the FLDS communities in Hildale, Utah, or Colorado City, Arizona. “On the state line, Hildale is the compound. Each has their own city councils, made up entirely of FLDS people loyal to Warren,” Holm says. “But now, it’s getting to be more and more people that are not loyal to warren; some other private landowners and other free-thinking people, and people of other religious persuasions.
Ex-FLDS member exploring custody solutions
http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,700225075,00.html
Excerpt
"I recommended to CPS that everything possible be done to reunite these children with their mothers as soon as was reasonably possible," he said. "I can understand, however, CPS's justifiable concern that these mothers have to be strong enough that they can prevent their child from being abused."
First, a simply amazing article by Carolyn Jessop, the author of Escape. Here, she defines what the role of a mother in the FLDS community is - and isn't.
Woman learns to be a mother outside FLDS
http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/viewpoints/articles/0511vip-jessop0511.html
Excerpts
As incredible as it might seem, I had to learn to kiss and hug my children again. I was always affectionate with my first child, Arthur. It came naturally to me. But in the FLDS, women are not supposed to show affection to their children. It's conferring value on an individual, and only the prophet and the head of the family are allowed to do that.
--------------------------------------------------
Some women manage to forge a connectedness, but many do not. Most children attach to another child for survival and protection like children do in orphanages.
May 13th
White House denies receiving letter from FLDS member
http://www.sltrib.com/ci_9235389
Excerpt
A White House official said Monday they had not received the letter that Willie Jessop, a member of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, told another newspaper he hand-delivered to Bush staffers.
May 12th
Today Show: Polygamy sect parents say state has scattered children
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24576081/
With Video!
Excerpt
The Dockstaders have a daughter who has a 2-year-old daughter of her own. They say their daughter is 23; CPS officials say she is 16. Nancy Dockstader said she has provided officials with a birth certificate and that her daughter has a valid Texas driver’s license showing that she is 23, but state officials have said they don’t believe her.
The Road to Eldorado: Expelled from the FLDS
http://www.swtexaslive.com/node/6857
Excerpt
Almost four years have passed since Holm was awarded 50/50 custody of his children by a judge in Kingman, Arizona, 250 miles away from the FLDS communities in Hildale, Utah, or Colorado City, Arizona. “On the state line, Hildale is the compound. Each has their own city councils, made up entirely of FLDS people loyal to Warren,” Holm says. “But now, it’s getting to be more and more people that are not loyal to warren; some other private landowners and other free-thinking people, and people of other religious persuasions.
Ex-FLDS member exploring custody solutions
http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,700225075,00.html
Excerpt
"I recommended to CPS that everything possible be done to reunite these children with their mothers as soon as was reasonably possible," he said. "I can understand, however, CPS's justifiable concern that these mothers have to be strong enough that they can prevent their child from being abused."
Monday, May 12, 2008
Interviews, Shots, and More
Some real goodies for you today! A recap of the FLDS situation from the 8th, then on the 9th, 2 interviews, one from the FLDS lawyer and one from Maggie Jessop, a FLDS wife!!! Then, 2 significant updates: FLDS kids get their shots (finally) and more on how some wives are leaving the "ranch" to be with their kids.
On the 10th, we finally have a piece that goes into the silliness of asking for your children back without actually attempting to identify which children are yours.
And finally, 3 pieces from today: Another article on everyone's mental health in this case, a Canadian FLDS girl caught in the Texas mess, and volunteers creating a library for the FLDS community.
May 12th
Mental health workers blast CPS for separating polygamist families
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/news/texassouthwest/stories/DN-polygamist_12tex.ART.State.Edition1.464687e.html
Bush asked to reunite families
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20080512.POLYGAMY12LETTER/TPStory/National
Lending a hand to children of polygamy
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20080512.POLYGAMY12/TPStory/National
May 10th: Texas: FLDS mothers in a 'conspiracy of silence,' cannot challenge children's removal
http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_9207759
May 9th:
2 FLDS mothers decide to leave their ranch home to be closer to their children
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/front/5769110.html
Texas will immunize FLDS children
http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_9209950
Interview with an FLDS Lawyer
http://www.digitaljournal.com/article/254474
I am an FLDS woman and I am entitled to the same rights as you
http://www.sltrib.com/opinion/ci_9211573
May 8th: Sorting Through the Texas Polygamist Custody Case
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=90300335
On the 10th, we finally have a piece that goes into the silliness of asking for your children back without actually attempting to identify which children are yours.
And finally, 3 pieces from today: Another article on everyone's mental health in this case, a Canadian FLDS girl caught in the Texas mess, and volunteers creating a library for the FLDS community.
May 12th
Mental health workers blast CPS for separating polygamist families
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/news/texassouthwest/stories/DN-polygamist_12tex.ART.State.Edition1.464687e.html
Bush asked to reunite families
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20080512.POLYGAMY12LETTER/TPStory/National
Lending a hand to children of polygamy
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20080512.POLYGAMY12/TPStory/National
May 10th: Texas: FLDS mothers in a 'conspiracy of silence,' cannot challenge children's removal
http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_9207759
May 9th:
2 FLDS mothers decide to leave their ranch home to be closer to their children
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/front/5769110.html
Texas will immunize FLDS children
http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_9209950
Interview with an FLDS Lawyer
http://www.digitaljournal.com/article/254474
I am an FLDS woman and I am entitled to the same rights as you
http://www.sltrib.com/opinion/ci_9211573
May 8th: Sorting Through the Texas Polygamist Custody Case
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=90300335
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Plans, Rattlings, Social Work, ACLU & Money
I will not be around tomorrow, so here is tomorrow's update as well!
May 8th: Texas officials drafting plans for FLDS children http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,695277366,00.html
Excerpts
Texas child welfare authorities have begun drafting service plans for the children taken from the Fundamentalist LDS Church's YFZ Ranch.
"It's the plan that has to address the permanency," said Mary Walker, a spokeswoman for the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. "Whether or not children will be unified with their parents or whether or not they will remain in foster care."
Children and parents are being interviewed this week, and Texas Child Protective Services will make recommendations. A judge would ultimately sign off on the plans. Court hearings addressing the children's status in foster care are scheduled to begin May 19 in San Angelo, Texas.
"Some of our moms are working on plans of their own that they can propose to CPS," said Cynthia Martinez with the Texas Rio Grande Legal Aid Society, which represents some of the FLDS mothers.
------------------------------------------------
"If, for example, we have a parent who has some substance abuse issues, the plan may be that the parent go into rehab," Walker said. "If you've got issues with neglect, making sure the child is properly cared for, we'd look at parenting classes, homemaking classes. The plan has to address whatever changes are necessary to reduce the level of risk."
Walker said she did not know what the service plans would address or recommend with the FLDS children and their parents. Texas CPS workers have claimed that the polygamist sect has a culture that lends itself to abuse, with girls being raised to become child brides.
The Texas child welfare system gives authorities up to a year to work with a family. If necessary, a judge can grant an extension. With 464 children in state protective custody, authorities concede that this case is not typical
May 8th: Raid on Sect in Texas Rattles Other Polygamists http://www.nytimes.com/2008/05/08/us/08raid.html?_r=1&adxnnl=1&oref=slogin&ref=us&adxnnlx=1210255263-DrhkdfBbqUUMsmlO5Wlc+g
Excerpt
Recent statements by Senator Harry Reid of Nevada, a Democrat and the Senate majority leader, calling for toughened enforcement of laws against polygamy, possibly with an expanded federal role by the Department of Justice, have sent a particular shiver, with questions swirling about what the states will do under federal pressure.
“They think they’re going to be next — that there’s so much pressure being brought on me that I’m going to raid them,” said Utah’s attorney general, Mark L. Shurtleff, a Republican. “They hear the rumors, and they call."
May 8th: Polygamist sect work takes toll on social workers http://www.statesman.com/news/content/news/stories/local/05/08/0508stress.html
Excerpt
During the first few weeks, the mothers were upset, but calm, she said. But as time has passed, the anxiety level has risen, Secrest said. Some of the women are showing signs of post-traumatic stress disorder, such as having flashbacks of the raid on their ranch, she said. The women have no idea when — if ever — they will be permanently reunited with their children.
"There are so many unknowns right now," Secrest said. "Usually you know what to expect, but in this case it's so different."
May 7th: ACLU weighs in on Texas FLDS raid http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_9182798
Excerpt
The ACLU said it will "work to ensure that Texas officials act in a manner that is consistent with the important principles set forth above, including making our views known to the Texas courts at appropriate points in the judicial proceedings."
FLDS: Where Does All That Money Come From? http://www.crimerant.com/?p=1626
Excerpt
One answers is, FLDS men are highly industrious and very successful in the construction business. They have numerous companies spread across the Southwest, which until recently has seen a building boom, and their earnings are funneled back into the church and its leadership. The sect excels at underbidding other construction outfits, because it employs boys from its own community without having to pay them much—or nothing at all. Some have called this “slave labor.” The FLDS has undercut its competition not just in the private marketplace, but also in government contracts.
Many men in the sect have been officially married to one wife, but might have a dozen or more unofficial “spiritual wives” who could qualify for welfare payments—another way to drain money from the government. The sect calls this tactic “bleeding the beast.”
Cooperation, Nother Book, Adaptation & Opinion
May 7th: Legal experts say what FLDS can do now is cooperate
http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,695277064,00.html
Excerpt
During its investigation, Texas authorities have said they have uncovered evidence of physical and sexual abuse among children. Cassell said courts have upheld that if law enforcement sees evidence — even if it's evidence of a completely different crime than what the search warrant suspected — that evidence can still be used in court.
"They don't have to avert their eyes of evidence of other wrongdoing," Cassell said. "They have to show probable cause to be pulling up fish, but if they're looking for a bass and they find a salmon, they don't have to throw the salmon back."
May 7th: Former 'plural wife' details life in FLDS
http://www.onenewsnow.com/Culture/Default.aspx?id=102188
Excerpt
Spencer details her life in the FLDS in her book Shattered Dreams: My Life as a Polygamist's Wife. She says FLDS members are taught that man can attain God-like status based on the number of wives and children he possesses. The church, she says, is a cult that brainwashes its members.
"I myself grew up seeing girls 13, 14, 15, getting married -- and [FLDS leaders] justified it by saying that the Mother of Christ, Mary, was a 14-year-old when she gave birth to Christ. So that's what they say," she explains. "They also taught that Jesus Christ was a polygamist -- [that] he was married to Martha and Mary; and they say, 'Who do you think all those crying women were at the cross? They were His wives.'"
May 5th: FLDS children adapt old ways to new homes
http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_9148958
Excerpts
AMARILLO, Texas - Now living hundreds of miles away from their rural Texas homes, some children at the center of the largest child abuse case in U.S. history are asking to bake bread.
They want a wheat grinder and a place to plant a garden. They want to pray twice a day - sometimes with siblings, sometimes all together. And when the spirit moves them, they want to sing.
"They sing very beautifully," said Delma Trejo, executive director of The Ark Assessment Center and Emergency Shelter for Youth in Corpus Christi.
----------------------------------------
Under Texas law, parents are allowed to visit their children in state custody. Mary Walker, a spokeswoman for the Department of Family and Protective Services, said supervised visitation is being arranged for mothers.
And fathers? "I believe that in some cases that is being allowed, if they have been identified as the fathers," she said.
------------------------------------------
Accustomed to a natural, healthy diet, the children at The Ark in Corpus Christi prefer whole milk, pure vanilla and unsweetened cereal. They've asked to make smoothies of almonds, water, honey and olive oil.
"The children are beginning to eat more now that they are becoming more comfortable at the Home," said Bryan Mize, spokesman for Methodist Children's Home.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I love this next piece! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Opinion: Nevada senator need not apologize for polygamy statement
http://www.thespectrum.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080507/OPINION/805070302
Excerpt
Members of the FLDS church have been uncooperative. Children lack birth certificates, and "spouses" lack marriage certificates. Many of the children have the same first name, and DNA testing is being used to identify biological parents. There is a question whether the kids even know who their birth parents are because of the polygamist practice of referring to other "wives" in the household as sister moms.
Some experts have estimated the number of polygamists in Utah at 40,000; others suspect a figure as high as 70,000. In a Washington Post interview a couple of years ago, Shurtleff was quoted as saying, "The thinking is this: This is a big group of people. They are not going away. You can't prosecute them all. You can't drive them out of the state. So they are here. What do we do about it?"
http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,695277064,00.html
Excerpt
During its investigation, Texas authorities have said they have uncovered evidence of physical and sexual abuse among children. Cassell said courts have upheld that if law enforcement sees evidence — even if it's evidence of a completely different crime than what the search warrant suspected — that evidence can still be used in court.
"They don't have to avert their eyes of evidence of other wrongdoing," Cassell said. "They have to show probable cause to be pulling up fish, but if they're looking for a bass and they find a salmon, they don't have to throw the salmon back."
May 7th: Former 'plural wife' details life in FLDS
http://www.onenewsnow.com/Culture/Default.aspx?id=102188
Excerpt
Spencer details her life in the FLDS in her book Shattered Dreams: My Life as a Polygamist's Wife. She says FLDS members are taught that man can attain God-like status based on the number of wives and children he possesses. The church, she says, is a cult that brainwashes its members.
"I myself grew up seeing girls 13, 14, 15, getting married -- and [FLDS leaders] justified it by saying that the Mother of Christ, Mary, was a 14-year-old when she gave birth to Christ. So that's what they say," she explains. "They also taught that Jesus Christ was a polygamist -- [that] he was married to Martha and Mary; and they say, 'Who do you think all those crying women were at the cross? They were His wives.'"
May 5th: FLDS children adapt old ways to new homes
http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_9148958
Excerpts
AMARILLO, Texas - Now living hundreds of miles away from their rural Texas homes, some children at the center of the largest child abuse case in U.S. history are asking to bake bread.
They want a wheat grinder and a place to plant a garden. They want to pray twice a day - sometimes with siblings, sometimes all together. And when the spirit moves them, they want to sing.
"They sing very beautifully," said Delma Trejo, executive director of The Ark Assessment Center and Emergency Shelter for Youth in Corpus Christi.
----------------------------------------
Under Texas law, parents are allowed to visit their children in state custody. Mary Walker, a spokeswoman for the Department of Family and Protective Services, said supervised visitation is being arranged for mothers.
And fathers? "I believe that in some cases that is being allowed, if they have been identified as the fathers," she said.
------------------------------------------
Accustomed to a natural, healthy diet, the children at The Ark in Corpus Christi prefer whole milk, pure vanilla and unsweetened cereal. They've asked to make smoothies of almonds, water, honey and olive oil.
"The children are beginning to eat more now that they are becoming more comfortable at the Home," said Bryan Mize, spokesman for Methodist Children's Home.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I love this next piece! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Opinion: Nevada senator need not apologize for polygamy statement
http://www.thespectrum.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080507/OPINION/805070302
Excerpt
Members of the FLDS church have been uncooperative. Children lack birth certificates, and "spouses" lack marriage certificates. Many of the children have the same first name, and DNA testing is being used to identify biological parents. There is a question whether the kids even know who their birth parents are because of the polygamist practice of referring to other "wives" in the household as sister moms.
Some experts have estimated the number of polygamists in Utah at 40,000; others suspect a figure as high as 70,000. In a Washington Post interview a couple of years ago, Shurtleff was quoted as saying, "The thinking is this: This is a big group of people. They are not going away. You can't prosecute them all. You can't drive them out of the state. So they are here. What do we do about it?"
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Seized Records, Carolyn and Basket Ball
May 6th: Texas used seized FLDS records against polygamous sect
http://www.sltrib.com/ci_9165683
Excerpt
Census sheets found in a safe at a polygamous sect's ranch in west Texas both support and contradict the state's claim of a widespread culture of underage marriage.
Texas authorities used the sheets to convince a judge that there was a "pervasive pattern" among the FLDS of marrying underage girls to older men.
A review of the "Father's Family Information" sheets shows a handful of 16-year-old wives, 13 young monogamous couples and 24 men with multiple wives - including one man with 21 wives and 36 children.
May 6th: State ordered to help prosecute polygamist sect cases
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/headline/metro/5758913.html
Excerpt
SAN ANGELO — The judge who last month ordered 463 children from a polygamist sect into state custody said the state attorney general should help with any criminal cases that may arise from an April raid on the sect's ranch.
State District Judge Barbara Walther's order, signed Monday, instructs the attorney general's office to assist in prosecuting any cases that may arise from two search warrants served on the Yearning For Zion Ranch during raids in early April.
The attorney general's office offered help in working through the massive case, Allison Palmer, first assistant district attorney in the area, told the San Angelo Standard-Times.
"There's the possibility there for us to have quite a bit to do," she said. Such rulings are routine in large cases such as this.
May 6th: Jessop says Jeffs to blame for FLDS troubles
http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,695276776,00.html
Excerpt
It has been a busy month for Carolyn Jessop.
In addition to myriad media interviews, promoting a best-selling book and taking care of her family, she just returned last week from her third trip to Texas helping educate government workers, volunteers and professionals about the unique culture of the Fundamentalist LDS Church.
Jessop, Shannon Price and other Utahns have been sharing their insights into the religion with Texas authorities. Both Jessop and Price still strongly believe Texas is doing the right thing by placing more than 450 children into state custody and investigating allegations of abuse.
May 6th: Polygamist Community Gets Back In The Game Of Sports
http://www.kutv.com/content/news/topnews/story.aspx?content_id=4d2dad75-c75c-43a9-8462-8e580f26d203
Excerpt
The thumping of basketballs in a high school gymnasium may be a familiar sound at most schools, but in Colorado City every ball that bounces is extraordinary.
When Warren Jeffs ruled, no sports were allowed. Once he left, the state of Arizona took over El Capitan High School and volunteer coaches stepped forward.
Women's coach Natalie Zitting was among the first in line.
"A lot of them had never picked up a basketball before," she said.
The school organized try-outs and had no idea what to expect.
"We advertised it and all types of kids showed up, and all sorts of clothing apparel," Zitting said.
The school didn't turn a single child away, and soon boys' coach Joel Heaton said the sport took on a life of its own."Where they eat, drink and sleep basketball," he said.
May 4th: Caregivers learn about FLDS ways
http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_9148959
Excerpt
Avoid red toys and clothes. Give them useful chores. Don't take offense at any prejudicial comments or attitudes.
Those are among tips caregivers received from the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services two weeks ago as it moved about 460 children from a polygamous sect to group homes and shelters.
They got a second round of advice this week in a two-day workshop crammed with experts on cults, child abuse, trauma, foster care and critics of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
"We are developing a range of services to meet therapeutic needs of the children with a greater understanding of their culture, religion and family and looking at ways to incorporate those elements in ongoing service planning," said Mary Walker, a spokeswoman for the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.
The state's approach has angered the FLDS, who accused Texas of turning to "hate groups" for advice.
http://www.sltrib.com/ci_9165683
Excerpt
Census sheets found in a safe at a polygamous sect's ranch in west Texas both support and contradict the state's claim of a widespread culture of underage marriage.
Texas authorities used the sheets to convince a judge that there was a "pervasive pattern" among the FLDS of marrying underage girls to older men.
A review of the "Father's Family Information" sheets shows a handful of 16-year-old wives, 13 young monogamous couples and 24 men with multiple wives - including one man with 21 wives and 36 children.
May 6th: State ordered to help prosecute polygamist sect cases
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/headline/metro/5758913.html
Excerpt
SAN ANGELO — The judge who last month ordered 463 children from a polygamist sect into state custody said the state attorney general should help with any criminal cases that may arise from an April raid on the sect's ranch.
State District Judge Barbara Walther's order, signed Monday, instructs the attorney general's office to assist in prosecuting any cases that may arise from two search warrants served on the Yearning For Zion Ranch during raids in early April.
The attorney general's office offered help in working through the massive case, Allison Palmer, first assistant district attorney in the area, told the San Angelo Standard-Times.
"There's the possibility there for us to have quite a bit to do," she said. Such rulings are routine in large cases such as this.
May 6th: Jessop says Jeffs to blame for FLDS troubles
http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,695276776,00.html
Excerpt
It has been a busy month for Carolyn Jessop.
In addition to myriad media interviews, promoting a best-selling book and taking care of her family, she just returned last week from her third trip to Texas helping educate government workers, volunteers and professionals about the unique culture of the Fundamentalist LDS Church.
Jessop, Shannon Price and other Utahns have been sharing their insights into the religion with Texas authorities. Both Jessop and Price still strongly believe Texas is doing the right thing by placing more than 450 children into state custody and investigating allegations of abuse.
May 6th: Polygamist Community Gets Back In The Game Of Sports
http://www.kutv.com/content/news/topnews/story.aspx?content_id=4d2dad75-c75c-43a9-8462-8e580f26d203
Excerpt
The thumping of basketballs in a high school gymnasium may be a familiar sound at most schools, but in Colorado City every ball that bounces is extraordinary.
When Warren Jeffs ruled, no sports were allowed. Once he left, the state of Arizona took over El Capitan High School and volunteer coaches stepped forward.
Women's coach Natalie Zitting was among the first in line.
"A lot of them had never picked up a basketball before," she said.
The school organized try-outs and had no idea what to expect.
"We advertised it and all types of kids showed up, and all sorts of clothing apparel," Zitting said.
The school didn't turn a single child away, and soon boys' coach Joel Heaton said the sport took on a life of its own."Where they eat, drink and sleep basketball," he said.
May 4th: Caregivers learn about FLDS ways
http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_9148959
Excerpt
Avoid red toys and clothes. Give them useful chores. Don't take offense at any prejudicial comments or attitudes.
Those are among tips caregivers received from the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services two weeks ago as it moved about 460 children from a polygamous sect to group homes and shelters.
They got a second round of advice this week in a two-day workshop crammed with experts on cults, child abuse, trauma, foster care and critics of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
"We are developing a range of services to meet therapeutic needs of the children with a greater understanding of their culture, religion and family and looking at ways to incorporate those elements in ongoing service planning," said Mary Walker, a spokeswoman for the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.
The state's approach has angered the FLDS, who accused Texas of turning to "hate groups" for advice.
Monday, May 5, 2008
Suicide and a Model for Care
FLDS Prophet Jeffs under suicide watch in Arizona
http://www.sltrib.com/ci_9159693
FLDS prophet Warren Jeffs has been placed under suicide watch in Arizona, where he awaits trial on charges of criminal incest and sexual assault.
The Fort Worth (Texas) Star-Telegram reports that Jeffs is described as emaciated as he waits, 23 hours a day and alone, in his cell.
The 52-year-old Jeffs, head of the polygamous Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, earlier was convicted of rape-as-an-accomplice in Utah.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
'Model for Care' to guide treatment of children
http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,695276464,00.html
Excerpts:
Saying they recognize the unique challenges posed by caring for more than 400 FLDS children in state custody, the Texas child protection agency has drafted a four-page "Model for Care" to guide foster-care facilities and individual providers.
The document, posted on the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services' Web site at http://www.dfps.state.tx.us/, advises that "every effort must be made to understand, respect and incorporate their religious beliefs as much as possible, as the children are gradually introduced into the mainstream culture."
In the Model for Care, numerous guidelines are suggested for providers. Under "Basic Placement and Care Recommendations," the guide advises:
• FLDS children should be housed together and segregated from other children at the facility. The separation should be maintained for several weeks, with gradual introduction of interaction between groups.
• Staff should be prepared for possible prejudicial comments and attitudes and not take them personally. Staff should address these issues slowly and gently with children.
• Allow for practice of religious beliefs, including prayer time and singing of hymns. Allow for appropriate privacy, but be aware that respectful adults may observe and interact, and this can be an opportunity to bond with them.
• Be aware of their culture of communal living and acting as a group; this can be an asset at times, but they will also need gradual guidance in independence and decision-making.
• When discipline is needed, be aware of the potentially harsh practices children may have experienced and their belief that obedience is important from a religious perspective as it relates to their favor with God and their eternity.
http://www.sltrib.com/ci_9159693
FLDS prophet Warren Jeffs has been placed under suicide watch in Arizona, where he awaits trial on charges of criminal incest and sexual assault.
The Fort Worth (Texas) Star-Telegram reports that Jeffs is described as emaciated as he waits, 23 hours a day and alone, in his cell.
The 52-year-old Jeffs, head of the polygamous Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, earlier was convicted of rape-as-an-accomplice in Utah.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
'Model for Care' to guide treatment of children
http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,695276464,00.html
Excerpts:
Saying they recognize the unique challenges posed by caring for more than 400 FLDS children in state custody, the Texas child protection agency has drafted a four-page "Model for Care" to guide foster-care facilities and individual providers.
The document, posted on the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services' Web site at http://www.dfps.state.tx.us/, advises that "every effort must be made to understand, respect and incorporate their religious beliefs as much as possible, as the children are gradually introduced into the mainstream culture."
In the Model for Care, numerous guidelines are suggested for providers. Under "Basic Placement and Care Recommendations," the guide advises:
• FLDS children should be housed together and segregated from other children at the facility. The separation should be maintained for several weeks, with gradual introduction of interaction between groups.
• Staff should be prepared for possible prejudicial comments and attitudes and not take them personally. Staff should address these issues slowly and gently with children.
• Allow for practice of religious beliefs, including prayer time and singing of hymns. Allow for appropriate privacy, but be aware that respectful adults may observe and interact, and this can be an opportunity to bond with them.
• Be aware of their culture of communal living and acting as a group; this can be an asset at times, but they will also need gradual guidance in independence and decision-making.
• When discipline is needed, be aware of the potentially harsh practices children may have experienced and their belief that obedience is important from a religious perspective as it relates to their favor with God and their eternity.
Welcome and Catching Up
Hello fellow FLDS Obssessors! My goal in this blog is to provide a central location for all things FLDS as well as provide up-to-date news and activities on the FLDS case. I would also like to provide a way to cut through all the editorials and side pieces in an effort to stay more central to the case. I have a lot of recapping to do just to get everything on here, so I'll try to get it all in one post:
The first article is from several days ago, but is a detailed description of just how separate the FLDS really are from mainstream society and in what ways. A good basis to start from:
http://www.alternet.org/blogs/peek/83517/
The second is from 2 days ago - a well done editorial on two popular arguments against the state of Texas's actions in removing the children:
http://www.star-telegram.com/245/story/620718.html
Here are links as things have unfolded in the case. Yes I pick and chose because there was a lot!
May 2nd: FLDS adults not suspected of abusing boys
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/metropolitan/5747898.html
May 1st: Texas: Exams show FLDS kids may have been physically, sexually abused
http://www.sltrib.com/ci_9115950
April 30th: Texas: New FLDS mother is a minor; polygamous sect's lawyer says she's 18
http://origin.sltrib.com/news/ci_9103069
April 29th: State officials standing by while FLDS mother gives birth
http://www.kvia.com/Global/story.asp?S=8244522&nav=AbC0
April 28th: Texas: 31 of 53 teen girls from FLDS ranch have been pregnant
http://www.sltrib.com/ci_9085178
April 27th: 2 young FLDS boys unaccounted for
http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,695274226,00.html
April 26th: Sect Children Face Another World, but Still No TV
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/26/us/26raid.html?em&ex=1209355200&en=d55fcdab5e1c835a&ei=5087%0A
April 26th: Court refuses to hear FLDS mothers' request
http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,695273992,00.html
April 24th: 25 mothers taken from FLDS ranch now believed to be minors
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5iIdMpRHjN4hpNKBhfYyAsR4DDo4QD908FJF00
April 24th: Court to hear Texas sect mothers' pleas to see children
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5iIdMpRHjN4hpNKBhfYyAsR4DDo4QD908CFA80
April 23rd: Phone number in Texas abuse report linked to Colo. woman
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5j_f6za8jjN7vLwXh3bqyHh_I3lZQD908163G0
April 23rd: Boys Ranch takes in more FLDS kids
http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_9033106
April 22nd: FLDS mothers, kids being moved from shelters to new locations throughout Texas
http://origin.sltrib.com/ci_9014979
April 22nd: Tally of FLDS children jumps from 416 to 437
http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,695272744,00.html
April 20th: Polygamist Group, FLDS Children To Be Placed In Foster Homes This Week
http://www.digitaljournal.com/article/253535
April 19th: DNA tests on Texas sect children
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/americas/7355779.stm
April 18: Sect children will stay in state custody, judge rules
http://www.sltrib.com/News/ci_8893463
April 11th: FLDS children to stay in care of Texas officials pending court hearing
http://www.sltrib.com/News/ci_8893463
April 8th: FLDS move stays peaceful
http://www.sltrib.com/ci_8835441
April 7th: Arrest Made in Texas Polygamy Case
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5iIdMpRHjN4hpNKBhfYyAsR4DDo4QD8VT6DVG0
April 5th: Standoff emerges at polygamist retreat in Texas
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20080405/polygamist_retreat_080405/20080405?hub=CTVNewsAt11
The first article is from several days ago, but is a detailed description of just how separate the FLDS really are from mainstream society and in what ways. A good basis to start from:
http://www.alternet.org/blogs/peek/83517/
The second is from 2 days ago - a well done editorial on two popular arguments against the state of Texas's actions in removing the children:
http://www.star-telegram.com/245/story/620718.html
Here are links as things have unfolded in the case. Yes I pick and chose because there was a lot!
May 2nd: FLDS adults not suspected of abusing boys
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/metropolitan/5747898.html
May 1st: Texas: Exams show FLDS kids may have been physically, sexually abused
http://www.sltrib.com/ci_9115950
April 30th: Texas: New FLDS mother is a minor; polygamous sect's lawyer says she's 18
http://origin.sltrib.com/news/ci_9103069
April 29th: State officials standing by while FLDS mother gives birth
http://www.kvia.com/Global/story.asp?S=8244522&nav=AbC0
April 28th: Texas: 31 of 53 teen girls from FLDS ranch have been pregnant
http://www.sltrib.com/ci_9085178
April 27th: 2 young FLDS boys unaccounted for
http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,695274226,00.html
April 26th: Sect Children Face Another World, but Still No TV
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/26/us/26raid.html?em&ex=1209355200&en=d55fcdab5e1c835a&ei=5087%0A
April 26th: Court refuses to hear FLDS mothers' request
http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,695273992,00.html
April 24th: 25 mothers taken from FLDS ranch now believed to be minors
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5iIdMpRHjN4hpNKBhfYyAsR4DDo4QD908FJF00
April 24th: Court to hear Texas sect mothers' pleas to see children
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5iIdMpRHjN4hpNKBhfYyAsR4DDo4QD908CFA80
April 23rd: Phone number in Texas abuse report linked to Colo. woman
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5j_f6za8jjN7vLwXh3bqyHh_I3lZQD908163G0
April 23rd: Boys Ranch takes in more FLDS kids
http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_9033106
April 22nd: FLDS mothers, kids being moved from shelters to new locations throughout Texas
http://origin.sltrib.com/ci_9014979
April 22nd: Tally of FLDS children jumps from 416 to 437
http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,695272744,00.html
April 20th: Polygamist Group, FLDS Children To Be Placed In Foster Homes This Week
http://www.digitaljournal.com/article/253535
April 19th: DNA tests on Texas sect children
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/americas/7355779.stm
April 18: Sect children will stay in state custody, judge rules
http://www.sltrib.com/News/ci_8893463
April 11th: FLDS children to stay in care of Texas officials pending court hearing
http://www.sltrib.com/News/ci_8893463
April 8th: FLDS move stays peaceful
http://www.sltrib.com/ci_8835441
April 7th: Arrest Made in Texas Polygamy Case
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5iIdMpRHjN4hpNKBhfYyAsR4DDo4QD8VT6DVG0
April 5th: Standoff emerges at polygamist retreat in Texas
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20080405/polygamist_retreat_080405/20080405?hub=CTVNewsAt11
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