Roy Jeffs, Son of FLDS Leader Warren Jeffs, Dies by Suicide

Roy Jeffs, the son of Warren Jeffs, the former leader of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (FLDS), has died. His sister, Rachel Jeffs, announced his death on Tuesday, June 4, 2019, stating that he took his own life on May 29. According to Rachel, Roy endured sexual and physical abuse as a child at the hands of their father, who is currently serving a life prison sentence in Texas after being convicted of sexually assaulting girls he considered wives.

Roy Jeffs, who was 26 at the time of his death, had previously spoken out against his father’s leadership. In an interview with The Associated Press in 2015, he described the FLDS community as being controlled by Warren Jeffs with an “iron fist.” He recounted how families were separated and that the group banned items such as movies and bicycles. His mother remained within the group, and the emotional distance from her was particularly painful for Roy, Rachel said.

Despite the trauma he endured, Roy was committed to sharing his story in hopes of helping others escape the FLDS. His sister noted that he had been working to break away from the group controlled by their father, who continues to exert influence from prison. The FLDS, which does not have a public spokesperson or contact information for its leaders, has remained largely isolated from mainstream society.

A funeral for Roy Jeffs is planned for Saturday, and the family has established a GoFundMe account to cover the associated costs. Warren Jeffs has not responded to requests for comment from the Associated Press through Texas prison officials. His legal representatives have not been immediately available to speak on his behalf. Rachel Jeffs stated that her father still maintains control over the FLDS from within prison.

Roy Jeffs’ account of abuse and his decision to leave the FLDS highlight the complex and often painful realities faced by members of the group. His story underscores the importance of protecting the vulnerable and seeking justice, a theme echoed in Micah 6:8, which calls for action rooted in justice, mercy, and humble service.

Source: Read the original report