New Jeffs book provides insight into women in fundamentalist group
 
The Spectrum
 
ST. GEORGE — A new book, "Inside the World of Warren Jeffs," by local author Dr. Carole A. Western, takes the reader inside Short Creek, two nearby communities in Hildale, Utah, and Colorado City, Ariz., where the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints leader, Warren Jeffs ruled until his arrest and conviction in the fall of 2007 as an accomplice in the rape of a 14-year-old girl.

Western will discuss her new book and take questions at The Book Cellar, in downtown St George, Saturday at 3 p.m.

Western details the experiences of several young women in Short Creek and lets them tell in their own words how they were coerced into virtual servitude and forced into unwanted pregnancies by the men they were ordered to marry. In addition, Western explains the power of the "First Wife," family sleeping arrangements and how polygamists manage to receive support from the U.S. government under its welfare programs as well as Medicaid.

Western also covers how teenage boys in polygamy sects are forced out of the colony, so as not to create competition for older men.

With Jeffs about to stand trial in Arizona on additional counts, "Inside the World of Warren Jeffs" is a timely read. The self-proclaimed prophet of the FLDS gained international notoriety in May 2006 when he was placed on the FBI's Ten Most Wanted list.

Western's prologue brings the reader up-to-date on Jeffs, who is currently serving two five year sentences at the Utah State Prison.

The event is free and open to the community. Please call for more information or reservations. The Book Cellar is located at 130 N Main St. The phone number is 652-0227. Refreshments will be offered.
 
The Spectrum.com
Originally published March 11, 2008
 
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