Warren Jeffs Trial Begins with Jury Selection

The trial of Warren Jeffs began today with attorneys from both sides wading their way through an extensive jury pool that will eventually work its way down to eight jurors and at least two alternates. Jeffs is facing two counts of rape as an accomplice related to a spiritual marriage that he conducted between a 14-year-old girl and her 19-year-old cousin.

According to the girl, known as Jane Doe, she had expressed her objections about the 2001 marriage on numerous occasions but Jeffs told her it was her duty and her salvation depended upon following directions.

As part of that marriage the 14-year-old girl said she unwillingly had relations with her husband. The state has listed the girl as a potential witness as well as her father and several siblings.

Jeffs, who started the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (FLDS), is expected to have several members of his sect testify in his defense. Among those listed to take the stand for Jeffs defense are the former husband as well as the mother of the girl.

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