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52 girls removed from FLDS compound in Texas

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Anonymous | 1:00 p.m. April 4, 2008
Utah doesn't want these people! Texas doesn't want these people, so find an Island for these Men to live alone on. Pretty soon they may start liking each other. Their minds are already deranged.
To To Texan | 1:02 p.m. April 4, 2008
Nowhere does it state automatic gunfire came from the FLDS compound. A poster posted that there was no gunfire from the Branch Davidian Compound in Waco Texas. That was false.

Somebody write up a program, some on here could follow something if they had to.
Observer | 12:57 p.m. April 4, 2008
Someone noticed armored personnel carriers at the FLDS site. They are DPS Fords.

The armored personnel carriers were at WACO because of gunfire from the complex. DUH!

Some people get confused here easily.

Stop, get facts, turn off computer.
Comments continue below
re strong hold | 1:06 p.m. April 4, 2008
"A FEMINIST STRONGHOLD???" "STRONGHOLD OF DEMOCRACY"???? You have got to be kidding me right what a joke what woman would want to be subservant to a man?!?! I dont know of any woman who would want to be in that kind of situation I know I wouldnt.
Don | 1:09 p.m. April 4, 2008
Texan; sarcasm can at times point out the stark
truth, that is not being told. I, like you do not
know the full story behind this situation.
Along with many other's in this country, have seen
multiple abuses by those in various positions of
authority. It does concern me when I here the word
"Compound", as opposed to home, church, property etc. It can appear that someone may be setting the
situation up for a specific outcome.
What happens, I hope the the Government does not
overreact, as they did at Waco.
To: Karl Jensen | 1:17 p.m. April 4, 2008
Thank you. I totally agree with your statements.

Children are and should be protected under the law. I hardly care what consenting adults do as long as it is not based on fear or oppression. In these cases however, these women have been brainwashed to believe their salvation depends on the practice of polygamy and have been told they are doing God�s will at the peril of eternal damnation. Furthermore, I am sick of hearing that since polygamy was practiced by old testament prophets, it is somehow sanctioned by God. It�s a ridiculous argument that assumes that these men were somehow infallible deities without human lust, desires or needs. There is no end to the number of people who claim to have a direct pipeline to God, and unfortunately, God has been blamed for a number of atrocities in the bible as well as throughout history.

onthestreet | 1:29 p.m. April 4, 2008
Good points, James Justice:
James Justice | 11:57 a.m. Apr. 4, 2008
2 "Those clueless posters 11:51" | 1:32 p.m. April 4, 2008
Don't just look at the pictures. Read the article. It states in paragraph 5... "State and local law enforcement officers went to the ranch late Thursday with an ARMORED PERSONNEL CARRIER".

If you can only look at the pictures, stick with commic books. You miss a lot if you try to get your news just from the pictures.
To Jeremy Parker | 1:44 p.m. April 4, 2008
If you are ashamed of our country, then MOVE!!!
Not suprised | 1:45 p.m. April 4, 2008
I am not suprised that some people posting would choose to defend their FLDS poly brothers. Deep down inside I think some of you wish you could marry children and have plural marriages. A good percentage of the inmates locked away in Utah prisons are sex offenders.
Jennie Arliss | 1:47 p.m. April 4, 2008
Jake Smith, You are a coward. You come out and say the LDS church abuses women. Where is your proof. I think that is the least intelligent post I have read in a long time. My IQ dropped 15 points just reading it. Get a life before you make such stupid accusations.
Dan | 1:49 p.m. April 4, 2008
Actually, Chester, the entire Muslum world and even some Asian cultures accept ploygamy. Ironically, they REALLY DO have a plan to take over the western world and make us dissapear both from the new and from the planet. In part because they believe we are corrupt and immoral.
Original | 2:01 p.m. April 4, 2008
Actually, the FLDS would be the original and the current LDS would be the offshoot. Polygamy was started by the LDS and, like it or not, the LDS own it, and always will. Technically, LDS still believe in Polygamy because they believe a man can have multiple wives in the afterlife.
FLDS isn't JUST polygamy | 1:58 p.m. April 4, 2008
For those who can ONLY think of "Polygamy" when they hear FLDS...

1. Polygamy isn't all they are about. It's much more complex than that.
2. They are "People" too.
3. The Bill of Rights applys to them as well.

Granted, if some in that demographic are abusing their children (and it's not all of them as some people would like you to believe), the government has the right to step in. But we all know that's not all this is about.

If all you can think of is "Polygamy" when you think of FLDS, you're pretty narrow minded.
Opinions NOT Facts | 2:57 p.m. April 4, 2008
It's amazing how many people on this blog are such experts on what's happening at YFZ. Were they part of this morning's briefings? Did they help write the search warrants? Did they talk to the girl who phoned in the complaint? Are they watching the action on closed-circuit TV?

The U.S. government has obviously missed an important resource in their search for Bin Laden. All they needed to do is pose the question here on this blog.
Polygamists are not illegal | 3:14 p.m. April 4, 2008
Those on here who say all of these polygamists aree are breaking the law aren't paying attention.

The first marriage is recognized by the state and the others are 'spiritual ceremonies' and therefore are not recognized by the state. Living with someone you are not legally married to is not illegal. It is the same as any un-married people who live together and have kids.
Boards not Blogs | 3:18 p.m. April 4, 2008
Reader Comments on articles are not blogs. Learn your terminology
Truth Restored | 3:19 p.m. April 4, 2008
Can anyone provide a reference in which an LDS authority states that polygamy is no longer held as a doctrine of the LDS church? I believe not. The LDS church has only suspended the practice of polygamy, not its status as doctrine.
Angel Chick in Texas | 3:42 p.m. April 4, 2008
I live near the compound in EL Dorado. They have not broken any laws that we know of until now. As to why the raid took place "A young girl call CPS and stated she was being abused." The Sheriff in this county has tried to maintain communication from the first time people began to move into the compound and he is a very good fair man who enforces the laws equally no matter who you are. The Judge ordered the rescue and investigation into the allegations that were made. CPS is now interviewing all inside the compound and assuring that the children ie: minors are free to speak without being intimidated by the ones who may or may not be condoning the abuse. Until the investigation is complete no one needs to make remarks about the FLDS or anyone else. It is OK to believe their religion is wrong "As I do" but only God knows what is in each persons heart. Have you ever wondered if he is proud of what is in yours? Please just pray for all involved CPS,Law Enforcement, victum's and yes even the abusers. I will pray for them and you. GOD Bless
Sam | 3:44 p.m. April 4, 2008
re: re:To Karl Jensen 1:17

I agree with both of you. Why should woman be treated this way and brainwashed into believing this malarkey. The practice is nothing by God or God. Only FEW mens imaginations. These FEW men would do anything for a little extra pleasure in ones life and even use God. If they think woman enjoy this kind of treatment there brains and minds are not working correctly. Men and woman both can be brainwashed if given a certain amount of time to do so. It's a shame to mankind that there are evil people who use innocent people for their own self gratification.
Anonymous | 4:00 p.m. April 4, 2008
Re: Waco...the first shot fired was identified as coming from a BATF lackey who shot himself in the leg while climbing a ladder.

He was in full view of the Davidians watching from windows while he was assisted back down the ladder.

The Branch Davidians could have easily shot this man, and others. But they did not.

The BATF lackeys hid behind vehicles parked on the complex. While the walls of the Davidian building were pocked with entry holes...the vehicles the BATF lackeys were hiding behind were not damaged.

The BATF lackeys murdered a boy who had climbed out on the roof to take a look at all the big men with their big guns...something that most boys would do...especially before they were aware that THEY were ALSO targets.
Jim | 4:01 p.m. April 4, 2008
Original...you have some BOLTS lose! Get some help.
RE: Truth Restored | 4:12 p.m. April 4, 2008
Thank you for cluing me in on this L D S belief. I was planning on being baptized with my entire family next week, but will in no way subject my family to hieratic beliefs and practices. We are opting out on this one tonight. The missionaries as well will be informed.
Re; Polygamists are not illegal | 4:33 p.m. April 4, 2008
So if polygamists are living together but not legally married, then they are a bunch of religious adulterers. Wonder how they justify that one?
Mindlessly Warped | 4:53 p.m. April 4, 2008
If Polygamy is so wonderful for you believers of indulgence? Then why are the " LOST BOYS" kicked out from the FLDS religion so that the old men can have at it with the young ladies for their wives? Something is very wrong with you people. Aren't we told to marry those of our own youth and age? You guys are horrible warped!
the name says it all | 5:36 p.m. April 4, 2008
Comparing the Extremist LDS break-offs to the actual LDS church is like comparing Al Qaida to Islam, it's just a comparison that you can't make.
Just a country boy | 5:36 p.m. April 4, 2008
I'm wondering of there is ever abuse in mainstream members homes (ask the bishop and stake presidents?????)
Also, if a child called protective services in that event would the down town church be raided?
Shades of Baranch Davidian without evidence.But then, you all know how children must be protected by the government. Don't you?
Gary Moore | 5:37 p.m. April 4, 2008
The 1953 debacle, all over again.

Taking 52 innocent, frightened children away from home and into custody, now that's child abuse.
Minor Player | 5:44 p.m. April 4, 2008
Any member who thinks the LDS Church gave up plural marriage in 1890 is ignorant of their own history. The Church continued to officially perform and encourage plural marriage until at least 1918, either in Mexico or out at sea. Plural marriage is an eternal part of our doctrine whether we like it or not. If we had not turned our back on this eternal principle, apostate child molesters like some in the FLDS group would never have been allowed. Instead the practice would still be protected and overseen by righteous priesthood leaders instead of paedophiles. We as Mormons only have ourselves to blame.
Oklahoma Mormon | 6:01 p.m. April 4, 2008
Play word games all you want. One phone call (so they say) and the police come and raid you. More power to the folks at Waco. At least they stood up for themselves. ZOG has no business on my property based on a made up phone call. You are next.
shocked | 6:39 p.m. April 4, 2008
I can not belive as I read the words here that you all are not outraged at anyone that would hurt a child in any way. Get a grip people these people went in to save the children ...would you not want someone to step in to save your child if something was being done to them..I my work I have seen things that would make you sick for the rest of your life... Thank God for people that care enought to help no matter what. We should all stand up for these CPS workerd at least they care....
bravery. | 6:41 p.m. April 4, 2008
No matter who you are, it is WRONG to force a 16 year old girl to marry a 50 year old man.

This 16 year old FLDS girl who called CPS was very brave. These children are taught that anyone outside the FLDS community is of the Devil. And for her to see beyond those brainwashing lies, and to know in her heart that she could reach out for help AND BE HEARD....I applaud her bravery. She has saved MANY children from an awful fate.
Anonymous | 7:11 p.m. April 4, 2008
Every now and again these events come along and we have to ask ourselves...
Is something done in the name of religion automatically acceptable? Can "God says so" rationalise everything? Can and will people actually do harm in Gods' name?
If we accept that a 52 year old man gets to marry and of course have sex with a 14 year old relative, we had better be prepared to accept pretty much every deviant behaviour someone can commit as a religous practise. We'd best not be prepared to pass everything done in the name of god just to get the same privelege. Somewhere before forced sex with your underage cousin a line is drawn. Wrong is wrong, and apparently not everybody who acts on gods word is actually doing so. We can't just do this stuff, or ignore those who do.
Jason | 7:53 p.m. April 4, 2008
Do we not delegate our authority to the government? What authority do any of us have to obtain a warrant for one household in a community, and then proceed to raid an entire community? The easy and indisputable answer is none (that is if we are believers in our constitution).

If more warrants are needed to protect the safety of children with due cause then so be it. Without them the questioning should have been limited to the one household to ensure the safety of the child within the constraints of the law.

Whether you want to believe it or not, this is a dangerous precedent.
Brent Brown | 7:57 p.m. April 4, 2008
To those who misunderstood my original comment, let me here attempt to clarify:

The so-called FLDS Church, although officially claiming roots back to John Taylor and the LDS Church, can trace its inception back to a schism from the LDS Church after many prominent members in and around the community of Short Creek were excommunicated in the late 1920s and early 1930s.

They are neither fundamental nor LDS, therefore the could not be "FLDS." They could also call themselves Jewish, but that would not make them Jewish.
Truth | 8:08 p.m. April 4, 2008
I'm from Eldorado Tx,(the town where the FLDS temple is). The girls that were taken from the compound were ages 10-16 and two were pregnant. Most had children. These girls by their own admission are being forced to marry much older men and have children. Some are being forced to marry realitives. A young girl from the FLDS compound found a cellphone and called 911 telling them she had been abused. Then and only then did the police and CPS step in. These children are being sexually, physically and mentally abused. One had the courage to call for help. We must do everything we can to help them.
To Money | 9:16 p.m. April 4, 2008
Just FYI--CPS does NOT get additional money for removing children from homes. CPS people are dedicated individuals who are HIGHLY underpaid for the work they do and the situations they put themselves into to save and protect the children. Get your facts straight before commenting!
Sadly amused | 10:33 p.m. April 4, 2008
Wow, what crazy comments on this story. I was just going to comment that the local sheriff in Texas did a better job of planning and executing this job than the FBI did of arresting a guy accused of having an illegal gun (the Wacko from Waco). Anybody who marries underaged children or forces children to have sexual relations should be punished severely, forcibly required to pay for and attend counseling and behavior modification, and prevented from coming into contact with children for many years. The children definitely should be taken out of abusive households and placed into households led by good parents, who can give love and encouragement to the children, who will need extra help in coping with life. I'm all for allowing people to practice their religion, but they should not force their immoral actions on children.
Dan | 10:57 p.m. April 4, 2008
Anyone who sentences a young woman to marry an old man is a rapist. I am appalled that these men have got away with this for such a very long time. I hope to never read a vile column in D-N like this one ever, ever again! The God that I believe in would never except children or women to go through such abuse. Shameful perversion! I also hope miner player is not a member of the church.
Tejas Goddess | 11:54 p.m. April 4, 2008
Don't Mess With Texas.

It takes quite a lot to get the Texas Rangers on your case!
AP | 1:23 a.m. April 5, 2008
This is plainly religious persecution. Leave them alone! How about this: if I don't like someone, I can report that they are abusing their children, and those children will instantly be taken away with no questions whatsoever! Stop persecuting religion in the name of "protecting children". Any church will contend that children of another church are not being raised right.

Dangerous Precedent | 2:17 a.m. April 5, 2008
We�ve just witnessed the government kidnap 52 children from an unpopular religious group with their only justification being a single unverified allegation of child abuse. This time it happened to someone else, but if we allow this sort of thing to continue, how long will it be until we have our own children torn away from us by reason of a mere accusation against someone else who happens to be of our same religion? We have already the history of Waco and Ruby ridge as chilling reminders of what our impetuous government agencies are capable of. Certainly if there�s abuse it should be investigated and protection provided for those abused or in danger, but the very thought that the government can come and recklessly take away my children based on accusations against someone else of my same religious faith is chilling to say the least!
LZ Freedom | 6:48 a.m. April 5, 2008
Kudo's to the brave young woman that called for help. Children instinctively know what is wrong or abusive.
Those of us who are members of the Church know that it is our responsibility, a covenant we've entered into, to honor and obey our government ie. the laws of the land. This includes not abusing children and taking people hostage.
Stockholm syndrome is too well known a phenomenon for people not to understand why more don't reach out for help. In most cases I'd say keep the system out of their lives, but this is truly a large group of people that can be helped just by the initial seperation from what should be called a Cult!
I hope more of these people are set free from the tyranny of abuse and control.
Our prayers are with everyone touching these lives!

radar | 6:48 a.m. April 5, 2008
excellent move by the authorities in texas, those girls are definitely at risk and need to be removed till they're 18 and then they can decide if they want to go back there.
I don't think the police need worry about another Waco type violent outcome with this cult/sect. I'm sure FLDS are similar to LDS people in that they aren't militant or have any history of militancy in the last 100 years.
TrueTexan | 9:19 a.m. April 5, 2008
Some of you people amaze me. A 16 year old girl, a member of the FLDS, called in the complaint. Where there's smoke there's fire. I'm sure most FLDS members were raised and indoctrinated into their warped beliefs, but polygamy, child marriage, child abuse, etc... are against the law. The Eldorado sheriff's dept and other Texas authorities are doing a superb job.

As someone who lives with this compound less than an hour away, I've been following the situation very closely. This isn't about relegious freedom, bill of rights, etc... This is about child abuse.
Polygamy is Against the Law. | 9:47 a.m. April 5, 2008
Polygamy is illegal. So is speeding. Do you want CPS taking your children away for breaking the law against speeding? I don't see any difference between speeding and plural marriage. Government destroys everything it touches. And notice that the children were transported in buses belonging to a church. And housed in church buildings!!! This is religious persecution pure and simple.
anonymous | 10:24 a.m. April 5, 2008
Okie to leave the 'religious nuts' alone would be to let them continue to rape and abuse young girls. i believe it is still considered rape legally if a 50 year old man has sex with a 14 or 15 year old girl. What amazes me is why a woman can let that happen to their daughters and sons. Mothers are suppose to protect their children until they are old enough to protect themselves. The FLDS mothers allow this to happen and I cannot believe in their hearts the believe it is right. Their whole religion or philosophy on life goes against morals and common sense. If those women want to be subservient to some man, fine, but they shouldn't have children.
anonymous | 12:31 p.m. April 5, 2008
In reply to the comment, "lets arrest all plolygamists, put them in jail and their children into foster homes". Well if that's the case then lets arrest all people who commit illicit cohabition and aldutry, put them in jail and their children into foster homes.

Illicit Cohabition and adultry is against the law in the state of Utah.
End of story!!!!

misty | 2:57 p.m. April 5, 2008
u can call this what ever you want...the 'STATE' can use what justification they need to make themself feel better or look better in the eyes of the people...but the truth is .THEY WILL ATTEMPT TO BRING DOWN WHAT WE DO NOT UNDERSTAND OR BELIVE IN THEMSELF WITH WHATEVER LAW OR AGENCY THAT FITS THEIR PURPOSE... i would be willing to say that the story about the 16yr old calling is just a story to justify access ..well look ..she hadnt been found yet? this is a case were FREEDOM OF RELIGION is challenged. THATS THE POINT WE NEED TO BE LOOKING AT! it does not matter if we agree with the FLDS..it matters that they are intitled to their beliefs..why do we forget that?
"children being raped" do we really belive that?
or is that something they say to get us on the "states side"?
im sure there is more to this than we will be told by the "state".. how rare that is for a 16 year old to be married? is she really forced or did she make the choice? humm i wonder?
There are many disillusioned | 4:50 p.m. April 5, 2008
People above that think that a child should just automatically put up with their parent's choices (religious or not). Of course, social services groups are not perfect (like anybody else) but they try. They have helped children excape situations where they could have been abused (or were abused). And you may not like to face it, but the FLDS group has been shown to have a greatly increased amount of this behavior. If a group believes that they must have more than one wife to get to heaven, let them do so as an ADULT having made the conscious choice themselves....(not told by an adult leader that this is what they must do).
No group will ever be "left alone" if they abuse young people's rights in this country.

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Courtesy Eldorado Success

Texas law enforcement officials are seen Friday morning at a roadblock in Eldorado, Texas.

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