Another alleged leader in FLDS fraud case to remain jailed

Another alleged leader in FLDS fraud case to remain jailed

A federal judge ruled again Thursday that one of the accused ringleaders of a polygamous sect’s multimillion dollar food stamp fraud scheme must remain behind bars. John Wayman, a member of the Fundamentalist LDS Church based in Hildale, Utah, and Colorado City, Arizona, had sought supervised release, but U.S. Magistrate Judge Dustin Pead denied the request. This follows a prior rejection of the same motion two weeks ago.

Wayman’s attorney, Jim Bradshaw, argued that the court’s decision appears to be influenced by the defendants’ religious beliefs. He noted that other individuals accused in nonviolent fraud schemes are typically granted supervised release. Bradshaw suggested that the court’s ruling, while claiming not to consider religion, seems to be shaped by it.

Pead emphasized that religion was not the basis for his decision. However, he acknowledged concerns that the group’s beliefs prioritize religious law over governmental laws. The judge noted that the group’s stance on this issue is a matter of concern.

Federal prosecutors have maintained that the case is about fraud, not religion. They have allowed seven of the 11 indicted individuals to be released on supervised terms, but have fought to keep Wayman, Lyle Jeffs, and two others behind bars. These individuals are accused of being ringleaders in the scheme that diverted at least $12 million in federal benefits.

Prosecutors allege that Wayman briefly went into hiding in the mid-2000s and helped imprisoned church leader Warren Jeffs evade capture. This history, along with his loyalty to Warren Jeffs, is cited as a reason for keeping him in custody. Prosecutors argue that Wayman could be instructed by Warren Jeffs to go into hiding using the sect’s network of houses across the country.

The case highlights the ongoing legal challenges faced by the Fundamentalist LDS Church, as federal authorities continue to pursue those involved in fraudulent activities. The ruling underscores the complexities of balancing religious freedom with the rule of law.

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