AP reports that opening arguments begin today in San Angelo, Texas in the trial of FLDS leader Warren Jeffs on charges of sexually assaulting two underage girls. Prosecutors charge that the leader of the polygamous religious sect lured the girls into "spiritual marriages." Defense attorneys appear likely to raise a free exercise defense. Yesterday, Judge Barbara Walther denied a motion to suppress evidence seized in the raid of the FLDS Yearning for Zion ranch in 2008. (See prior posting.) Today, just before opening arguments, she will hear arguments on a motion to suppress evidence from a traffic stop of Jeffs in 2006. Meanwhile the Salt Lake Tribune last week reported on the challenge to Jeffs power as FLDS leader by former high-ranking elder William E. Jessop. Evidence in Jeffs trial could increase support for Jessop.
UPDATE: On Thursday morning, Warren Jeffs told Judge Barbara Walther: "I have released all my counsel. I desire to represent myself." The Salt Lake Tribune reports that Walther recessed proceedings to consider the request. Jeffs says his lawyers could not present his true defense.
