52 girls removed from polygamous compound in Texas

0 Comments | AFP, April, 2008

WASHINGTON (AFP) — US authorities removed as many as 52 girls from a polygamous sect's compound in western Texas on Friday, while the rest were questioned, officials said.

The age of the girls ranged from six months to 17 years, according to the Child Protective Services in Schleicher County.

"The caseworkers need to have an opportunity to assess their needs and try to find out what the appropriate action will be," said CPS spokesman Patrick Crimmins.

The girls lived at the YFZ Ranch in Eldorado, which is owned by the Fundamentalist Church of Latter Day Saints led by Warren Jeffs, an avowed polygamist who is now serving time in jail.

The girls are now being held at an undisclosed location in San Angelo, north of the compound, officials said.

© 2008 AFP