Ex-FLDS Spokesman Wins $30 Million Judgment Against Church Leaders

Willie Jessop, the former spokesman for the Fundamentalist LDS Church, has secured a $30 million default judgment against two top leaders of the polygamous church. The ruling came after Lyle Jeffs, Warren Jeffs’ brother, and John Wayman failed to respond to Jessop’s lawsuit. Jessop alleged that he was excommunicated and subjected to retaliation for speaking out against the church’s leadership.

Jessop’s legal action followed his excommunication, which he claimed was a result of being pressured to lie for Warren Jeffs, who faced charges related to underage marriages and child sex assault. He also alleged that FLDS leaders burglarized his construction business in Hildale and forced his employees to resign as a form of punishment.

In an interview with FOX 13, Jessop expressed concern over the ongoing challenges faced by members of the FLDS communities in Hildale, Utah, and Colorado City, Arizona. He described the situation as a “tragedy,” noting that religious leaders are excommunicating people to cover up sexual assault allegations against children.

Jessop was once a loyal supporter of Jeffs until he learned of the sexual abuse of children following the raid on the FLDS Church’s Yearning for Zion Ranch in Texas. Jeffs is currently serving a life sentence plus 20 years for child sex assault, stemming from his “spiritual marriages” to a 12-year-old and a 15-year-old girl.

Since Jeffs’ incarceration, he has excommunicated nearly 2,000 individuals for unspecified “sins.” Jessop referred to this as a “social tragedy,” emphasizing the ongoing struggle of those trying to navigate life after Jeffs’ leadership.

Jessop has also served legal notices to other FLDS leaders, including Warren Jeffs himself. He remains committed to holding the church’s leadership accountable for their involvement in the alleged misconduct. Law enforcement in southern Utah has indicated that criminal investigations into FLDS members are ongoing.

Jessop continues to advocate for the protection of individuals affected by the church’s actions. He emphasized the need for continued efforts to support those trying to survive the aftermath of Jeffs’ leadership, highlighting the long road ahead for the community.

Source: Read the original report