Reader comments
Shurtleff seeks funding to aid abuse victims

I don't believe there are enough abusive situations in this group of people that would accept help from the government to make it worth the money. I think more research should go into it to prove the need.

I am concerned that money won't be avaliable to the rest of the abused women and children in the state. I am sure there is a huge problem in the closed polygamist societies. The secrets kept by these groups OFTEN include abuse.
I would want to make sure enough money would be avaliable to women like the one in the recent news, who was shot in the back by her estranged husband. Perhaps some money could go to prevent crimes where the abuser has already made threats in front of witnesses. Threats of death need to be taken more seriously by society as a group. Just because a "normal" person would not kill a sweet wife, doesn't mean another type of person would be that kind.

I commend our Attorney General for having the wisdom and the courage to be proactive on the issue of abuse in secretive communities. Shurtleff is right to ask for public funding to support help for victims -- all victims, not just polygamists -- since public neglect has certainly contributed to the problem. However, victims from closed societies like the FLDS have a tougher time seeking and getting help. I left an abusive relationship and had very little support from family or the community. A victim from a closed community would be much worse off -- FLDS victims must feel doomed! Way to go Mark. You rock.