FBI adds to reward for FLDS leader Jeffs

ST. GEORGE — The Federal Bureau of Investigation said Tuesday it would offer a $50,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of fugitive polygamous leader Warren Jeffs.

Jana Monroe, the Phoenix FBI special agent in charge, announced the reward during a 2 p.m. press conference held jointly with Arizona Attorney General Terry Goddard. The FBI's reward enhances a $10,000 reward offered in July by the Arizona and Utah attorneys general, bringing the total reward to $60,000.

"I hope this larger reward will help bring Warren Jeffs to justice," Goddard said. "He continues to exert his harmful influence over the Colorado City/Hildale community, and he must answer the serious charges against him in a court of law."

The search for Jeffs, who has not been seen in public for nearly two years, is a multi-jurisdictional effort by various law enforcement agencies crossing state borders and into Canada.

An arrest warrant was issued for Jeffs in June 2005 by Mohave County, Ariz., on charges of sexual conduct with a minor and conspiracy to commit sexual conduct with a minor. Jeffs is accused of performing a marriage involving an underage girl and a man who was already married.

A federal arrest warrant was issued later that same month for Jeffs, charging him with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.

"We definitely hope this reward will motivate individuals to consider telling us what they know (about Jeffs)," said Deborah McCarley, FBI public information officer in Phoenix. "We have already had numerous calls and investigative tips."

Jeffs is described as being 6 foot 4 in height, weighing 150 pounds and having brown eyes and hair. A photograph and additional information can be accessed on the FBI's Web site publicizing the FBI's most wanted at www.fbi.gov.

Anyone with information about Jeffs should contact the Mohave County Sheriff's Office at 928-753-0753 or 1-800-526-1911.

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E-mail: nperkins@desnews.com