FLDS critic accused of beating children and lying to panel

Dan Fischer, a former member of the Fundamentalist LDS Church, has been accused by former spouses and family members of abusing children and providing false testimony during a congressional hearing on crimes related to polygamy. Affidavits submitted to the Senate Judiciary Committee allege that Fischer physically harmed his children and misrepresented his past during his testimony. These claims were made by some of Fischer’s ex-wives, children, and family friends, and were presented by Rod Parker, an attorney acting as a spokesperson for the FLDS Church.

Fischer, who left the FLDS Church in 1995, has long been an advocate for former members of the group, particularly the so-called “Lost Boys”—youth who have left or been expelled from the community. He established a foundation to provide these individuals with support, including shelter, counseling, and education. Additionally, Fischer has funded legal actions against the FLDS Church. His recent congressional testimony, however, has drawn criticism from former family members who claim he lied about his past and the practices of the church.

In one affidavit, Marcia Barlow, Fischer’s third wife, stated that she initially avoided discussing negative aspects of Fischer’s life with her children. However, after witnessing his testimony, where he allegedly misrepresented his father, his uncle, and the church’s teachings, she felt compelled to share the truth. The affidavits were part of a broader effort by the FLDS Church to present its revised marriage policies and to challenge the committee’s decision not to include FLDS representatives in the hearing.

The affidavits were submitted shortly before the deadline for inclusion in the printed hearing record, which had passed on Wednesday. This has raised questions about whether the documents will be formally part of the record. Fischer, who has been a vocal critic of the FLDS Church, has accused the group of using the allegations against him as a distraction from the scrutiny it faces. He has stated that his work with the Lost Boys and his congressional testimony have angered the FLDS leadership, leading to the attacks on his character.

The situation highlights the complex dynamics between former members of the FLDS Church and the group itself, as well as the challenges of addressing past abuses and ensuring accountability. The affidavits underscore the personal and legal battles that have emerged in the wake of increased scrutiny of the FLDS Church’s practices.

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