FBI Director Robert Mueller says his agency will not take the lead in investigating polygamist groups but will rather support any local law enforcement effort if asked to.
Speaking to reporters during a brief trip to the FBI's Salt Lake Field Office, Mueller said the FBI's focus remains on counterterrorism, child exploitation and financial fraud cases but polygamy was not among those priorities.
At a time when federal and state law enforcers from several states, including Utah, have converged in Las Vegas to form a task force on polygamy, Mueller on Wednesday said he did not see the need for it.
"I'm not sure a task force is necessary," Mueller said. With that said, Mueller said the FBI will continue to assist state and local law enforcement in any polygamy-related investigation if asked to.
When asked if the FBI has any current investigations into polygamist groups, Mueller said he could not comment on any ongoing investigations.
Mueller did praise the Salt Lake Field Office for breaking up a variety of criminal enterprises, including its success in dismantling the violent street gang known at the Tiny Oriental Posse. More than 12 members of the gang recently entered guilty pleas in federal court under charges of racketeering.
E-mail: gfattah@desnews.com
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After the Feds performance at WACO ... I would hope they keep as far away from any hands on action as possible. Having them too closely involved is a sure recipe for disaster.
So, the Feds see no need for a task force. I wonder whos bright idea it was for the State guys to get together to persue the FLDS.
How much money will be wasted on prairie dresses for the new informants so they can slip in and catch More..