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Sam Penrod ReportingState prosecutors posted a reward today for information on the whereabouts of polygamist leader Warren Jeffs. Jeffs has eluded authorities for several weeks, after he was indicted on charges of arranging marriages involving underage girls.
Ten thousand dollars, that is the price Arizona and Utah prosecutors say they will pay for information leading to Jeffs' arrest. It is the latest attempt to force Jeffs to appear in a court of law, an appearance that law enforcement officials all agree will require someone close to Jeffs, to turn him in.
The reclusive leader of the FLDS sect has rarely been seen in public, but in recent months few of his followers even report seeing Warren Jeffs. Indicted in June on charges conspiracy to commit sexual conduct with a minor, for allegedly arranging numerous marriages of underage girls, Jeffs remains a fugitive from justice.
Terry Goddard, Arizona Attorney General: "To a great degree, when he proclaims he is separate from the law it is going to have an influence on a great number of people."
In what the Arizona Attorney general calls an unprecedented move, Arizona and Utah are offering a cash reward of ten thousand dollars. Tipsters can remain anonymous. Wanted posters will be posted around Colorado City, Arizona, Hildale, Utah and near Eldorado, Texas, but authorities admit Jeffs could be anywhere.
Terry Goddard, Arizona Attorney General: "The frustration that we all feel is further exaggerated by the fact that there have been no reported sightings, of the leader of the FLDS sect in northern Arizona or southern Utah for the last several months."
And to make it easier for Arizona authorities to arrest Jeffs, a federal warrant has been issued and the FBI is now involved, which allows Jeffs to be pursued anywhere in the United States.
Terry Goddard, Arizona Attorney General: "I don't see this reward as being an end to itself, but being part of an effort to make it absolutely clear that no person, wherever they live, whatever large their following may be is above the law..."
Earlier this week eight of Jeffs followers surrendered to authorities in Arizona, after being indicted for taking under-aged girls for plural wives.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Warren Jeffs should call the Mohave County sheriff in Arizona.
