Security increased for Jeffs, witness
 
By Ben Winslow
Deseret Morning News
 
Police are taking steps to protect the young woman who has accused Fundamentalist LDS Church leader Warren Jeffs of forcing her into a child-bride marriage, even as the courts work to protect her identity.

"Jane Doe IV," the prosecution's star witness, is expected to testify during Jeffs' preliminary hearing Tuesday. Washington County Sheriff's deputies said security will be increased in St. George's 5th District Courthouse to protect the alleged victim and Jeffs.

"The safety of crime victims is paramount to us," Washington County Sheriff's Lt. Jake Adams told the Deseret Morning News. "He's certainly what we would classify as high profile. His safety is also held in account."

Adams declined to talk specifics, but he said a number of security and contingency plans are in place. St. George police said they plan to have a heavy security presence outside the courthouse, including deploying their SWAT team.

The judge in the Jeffs case is taking steps to protect the identity of the woman testifying against the polygamist leader.

In an order signed in the court on Thursday, Judge James L. Shumate banned the news media from photographing, videotaping, drawing or depicting "Jane Doe IV or her immediate family members while in the courthouse during the proceedings in this matter."

Courthouse video cameras will also be pointed away from the woman while she is in court.

E-mail: bwinslow@desnews.com
 
desertenews.com
Originally published Saturday, November 18, 2006
 
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