Warren Jeffs, the infamous leader of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (FLDS), continues to exert control over his followers despite being imprisoned for life plus 20 years for child sexual abuse. Jeffs, now in his late 50s, was convicted for crimes including the sexual abuse of a 15-year-old girl and another 12-year-old child bride.
Background of FLDS and Jeffs’ Rise to Power:
The FLDS is a splinter sect of Mormonism, unaffiliated with the mainstream Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It embraced polygamy, a practice the official LDS church renounced in the 1890s. Warren Jeffs grew up in the FLDS, where polygamy was prevalent in his family. He eventually succeeded his father, Rulon Jeffs, as the leader of the sect and moved the group into West Texas.
Crimes and Conviction:
Jeffs faced multiple allegations of sexual abuse across various states, including Utah, Arizona, Colorado, and Texas. He was known for strict control over his followers, often separating families and marrying underage girls. He was caught in Las Vegas with burner cell phones and a large sum of money. His meticulous records, which included confessions of guilt, were critical in building the case against him.
Life in Prison:
While in prison, Jeffs has exhibited signs of severe mental health decline. He attempted suicide and went on hunger strikes, leading to force-feeding and medically induced comas. Despite these issues, he has maintained a leadership role in the FLDS, publishing a book titled “Jesus Christ Message to All Nations” from prison.
Continued Influence:
Jeffs still commands loyalty from many FLDS members who see him as their prophet. He has convinced his followers that his imprisonment is an atonement for their sins. The FLDS, once estimated to be worth over $100 million, has reportedly lost control over its assets and seen a decline in membership since Jeffs’ incarceration.
Concerns of a Potential Tragedy:
There are fears that the FLDS under Jeffs’ remote leadership could lead to a tragedy similar to Jonestown or Waco. The sect reportedly has thousands of followers and several remote compounds in the American West. The documentary “Prophet’s Prey” explores Jeffs’ reign over the FLDS, highlighting the widespread abuse, particularly sexual crimes against children and marital rape within the sect.
Impact on Victims and Families:
The documentary also sheds light on the traumatic experiences of ex-FLDS members, including Jeffs’ relatives, who provide testimony against him. Survivors share harrowing stories of abuse and manipulation, with some even losing their children to the sect.
Legal and Social Challenges:
Despite Jeffs’ conviction and the evidence against him, the FLDS remains a complicated issue, with its followers deeply indoctrinated and loyal to Jeffs. His case highlights the challenges in addressing cult-like organizations and the need for continued vigilance to protect vulnerable members from exploitation and abuse.
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