Today in San Angelo Texas.
The news of Jeffs’ conviction,
In his closing argument, lead prosecutor Eric Nichols told jurors that the so-called religious persecution and freedom issues Jeffs raised are not a legitimate defense for the alleged crimes.
“This case is not about any people, not about any religion. This case is about Warren Steed Jeffs and what he has done,” Nichols said, according to The Salt Lake Tribune.
Prosecutors finished presenting their sexual assault case on Wednesday by playing a recording of his alleged rape of a 12-year-old girl for jurors.
delighted a Utah DA: SALT LAKE CITY — Not long after polygamous sect leader Warren Jeffs — charged with sexually assaulting two underage girls he took in “spiritual marriages” — was found guilty by a Texas jury, Utahns with ties to Jeffs were buzzing about the verdict.
“I’m delighted” Utah Attorney General Mark Shurtleff said Thursday, noting that it’s been 10 years since Utah filed its warrant in a separate case against Jeffs. “I’m extremely pleased justice has finally been served.”
This is the culmination of years of work on behalf of Texas law enforcement and the Tom Green County DA as well as District Judge Barbara Walther. So far none of the defendants in child rape cases arising from the raid on the cult compound outside Eldorado has been acquitted, as far as I’m aware.
There is no exception to child rape laws in Texas for claims that it’s a religious rite.
“There is no exception to child rape laws in Texas for claims that it’s a religious rite.”
somedays i’m truly proud to be able to say that i’m originally from the great state of texas. this is one of those days.