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POLYGAMIST SECT |
Jeffs Sentenced To Five Years To Life
Former Polygamist Sect Leader Charged As Rape Accomplice
POSTED: 2:30 pm PST November 20,
2007
UPDATED: 12:02 pm PST November 22,
2007
ST. GEORGE, Utah -- A judge has sentenced a polygamous-sect leader Warren Jeffs to two terms of five years to life in prison for arranging the marriage of a minor. He was also fined over $37,000 in connection to the charges.
Jeffs was convicted of using his status in the church to influence a 14-year-old girl to marry her 19-year-old cousin. Prosecutors said Jeffs forced the girl into the marriage and sex against her will.Under Utah law, a 14-year-old can consent to sex in some circumstances. But sex is not considered consensual if a person younger than 18 is enticed by someone at least three years older.
Allen Steed, the husband in the marriage who testified for Jeffs, has been charged with one count of felony rape.Court officials said Jeffs may be eligible for parole in three to four years.There is no word at this time on whether Jeff plans to appeal his sentence.
 In 3 To 4 Years, Jeffs May See Parole | |
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Previous Stories:
- November 7, 2007: Report: Jeffs Attempted Suicide
- September 25, 2007: Jeffs' Jury Comes To Decision
- September 24, 2007: Jurors Return To Jeffs Case
- August 31, 2006: Polygamist Leader Won't Fight Extradition
- August 30, 2006: Fugitive Polygamist Caught With $50,000 Cash, Wig
Copyright 2008 by KVVU.com. The Associated Press contributed to this report. All rights reserved.
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