Polygamists Say They Feel Betrayed

SAN ANGELO, Texas (AP) – Some members of the Eldorado polygamist compound say the abuse complaint that led to more than 400 children being taken into state custody came from a bitter person outside their community

More than 30 women who live on the compound — many of who are mothers — told reporters they felt betrayed by the state after being seperated from their children.

Texas officials sent many of the mothers away Monday as a judge considers the massive child-custody case.

Marissa Gonzales, spokeswoman for the state Children’s Protective Services agency, says only those with children 4 or younger have been allowed to remain with them.

Gonzales says it’s not the normal practice to allow parents to accompany the child when an abuse allegation has been made.

One woman who lives on the ranch said the mothers weren’t allowed to stay goodbye to their children.

The state is accusing the sect of physically and sexually abusing the youngsters. Texas officials want to strip their parents of custody and place the children in foster care, or put them up for adoption.

Texas bar officials said more than 350 lawyers from across the state have volunteered to represent the children free of charge.