More cases likely against polygamists

Published 10:17 pm Tuesday, August 12, 2008

SAN ANTONIO — Texas Rangers are investigating about 20 alleged abuse cases and 50 alleged bigamy cases involving members of a polygamist sect, a Department of Public Safety spokeswoman confirmed Tuesday.

DPS spokeswoman Tela Mange cautioned that it remains unclear how many cases will ultimately be pursued.

All of the more than 400 children found at the Yearning For Zion Ranch in Eldorado during an April raid were placed in foster care by the state, though a court later reversed that decision. Child-welfare officials continue to investigate and have asked that eight of the children be returned to foster care.

Authorities raided the ranch after calls to a domestic abuse hotline from someone claiming to be underage abused mother, though those calls are now being investigated as a hoax.