Preston Jessop
Preston Jessop: A Deep Dive into the FLDS Polygamist Leader and His Enduring Influence
Preston Jessop is a name that resonates deeply within the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS), a polygamous offshoot of mainstream Mormonism. His story is intertwined with the history of the FLDS, its internal power struggles, and its ongoing struggle with law enforcement and societal norms. Understanding Jessop's role requires delving into the past, examining the present, and anticipating the future of this insular religious community.
Who is Preston Jessop?
Preston Jessop, born in 1951, is a prominent leader within the FLDS church. He isn't the *current* prophet – that role is ostensibly held by Warren Jeffs, though Jeffs remains incarcerated. Instead, Jessop functions as a key administrator and influential figure, particularly within the FLDS community near Pringle, South Dakota, and historically within the Short Creek area (now Colorado City, Arizona, and Hildale, Utah). While his exact position is often intentionally obscured, he is widely believed to be a member of the secretive Council of Prophets, the governing body of the FLDS, and a crucial enforcer of Warren Jeffs' decrees.
What is his Significance?
Jessop's significance lies in his long-standing involvement with the FLDS leadership and his ability to maintain control and loyalty within a specific faction of the church. He is a key player in the ongoing power vacuum created by Warren Jeffs' imprisonment. He is considered by some to be one of the more pragmatic figures within the leadership, though still deeply committed to the principles and practices of FLDS polygamy. His influence extends to land ownership, resource allocation, and the assignment of wives within the community, giving him immense power over the lives of FLDS members.
When and Where did his Influence Rise?
Jessop's rise to prominence began during the era of Rulon Jeffs, Warren's father and the previous prophet. He solidified his position under Warren Jeffs' reign, becoming a trusted lieutenant. His sphere of influence has traditionally been concentrated in the Short Creek area, the historical heartland of the FLDS. However, following crackdowns by law enforcement and internal divisions within the church, his influence has expanded to other FLDS settlements, notably the community near Pringle, South Dakota. The shift towards Pringle gained momentum particularly after Warren Jeffs was convicted in 2011 for child sexual assault.
Why is he Important Today?
Jessop remains important because he represents a continuity of FLDS leadership in the absence of a fully functioning prophet. Warren Jeffs, despite being incarcerated, continues to exert influence through written directives, but his ability to directly manage the church is severely limited. This power vacuum has led to internal power struggles, with Jessop emerging as a key figure in maintaining order and enforcing Jeffs' commands within his sphere of influence. He is also crucial in navigating the FLDS community's interactions with the outside world, including legal challenges and economic survival.
Historical Context: The Roots of the FLDS
To understand Jessop's role, it's crucial to grasp the historical context of the FLDS. The church originated in the late 19th century when the mainstream Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints officially abandoned the practice of polygamy under pressure from the U.S. government. A segment of the Mormon population, believing polygamy to be a divinely ordained practice, broke away and formed what would become the FLDS. They established communities in remote areas like Short Creek to practice their beliefs in relative isolation.
Throughout the 20th century, the FLDS developed a distinct culture characterized by strict adherence to its religious principles, communal living, and a hierarchical leadership structure. The leadership, traditionally held by a single prophet, wielded significant control over all aspects of members' lives. This control was often justified by religious doctrine, but it also facilitated the exploitation of women and children, leading to allegations of abuse and neglect.
Current Developments: Power Struggles and External Pressures
The imprisonment of Warren Jeffs in 2011 threw the FLDS into a period of significant turmoil. While Jeffs continues to issue directives from prison, his authority is increasingly challenged. Internal factions have emerged, vying for power and control over the church's resources. Jessop is a key player in one such faction, maintaining control over a significant portion of the FLDS membership and assets.
The FLDS also faces ongoing pressure from law enforcement and social service agencies. Investigations into allegations of child abuse, welfare fraud, and discriminatory practices continue. The Short Creek area, once a stronghold of the FLDS, has seen significant changes as non-FLDS residents move in and challenge the church's dominance. The U.S. Department of Justice has also been involved in civil rights lawsuits against the towns of Colorado City and Hildale, alleging discrimination against non-FLDS residents. In 2016, a jury found that the towns had violated the constitutional rights of non-FLDS residents.
Data Points:
- Warren Jeffs' Conviction: In 2011, Warren Jeffs was convicted of child sexual assault and aggravated sexual assault of a child. He is serving a life sentence plus 20 years.
- Short Creek Population Shift: The population of Colorado City and Hildale has become more diverse in recent years, with a growing number of non-FLDS residents. This shift has challenged the FLDS's dominance in the area.
- Civil Rights Lawsuits: The U.S. Department of Justice has successfully sued the towns of Colorado City and Hildale for discriminating against non-FLDS residents.
- FLDS Land Ownership: The FLDS controls significant land and property in various states, including Arizona, Utah, and South Dakota. The management and allocation of these resources are often sources of conflict within the church.
- Continued Fragmentation: The internal power struggles could intensify, leading to further divisions within the church. Different factions, led by figures like Jessop, could establish independent communities and pursue their own interpretations of FLDS doctrine.
- Gradual Assimilation: As the FLDS community becomes more integrated with the outside world, its members may increasingly adopt mainstream values and practices. Younger generations, in particular, may be more likely to leave the church and pursue education and careers outside the FLDS community.
- Entrenchment and Resistance: Some factions within the FLDS may resist change and attempt to maintain their traditional way of life. These groups may continue to practice polygamy in secret and resist efforts by law enforcement and social service agencies to intervene.
- Succession Challenges: The question of who will ultimately succeed Warren Jeffs as the prophet remains unresolved. This uncertainty could further exacerbate internal tensions and lead to new power struggles.
Likely Next Steps: Fragmentation and Adaptation
The future of the FLDS is uncertain. Several possible scenarios could unfold:
Preston Jessop's role in these unfolding scenarios is likely to be significant. He is a key player in shaping the future of the FLDS, and his actions will have a profound impact on the lives of its members. Whether he chooses to embrace change, maintain the status quo, or pursue his own vision for the church remains to be seen. His ability to adapt to the changing circumstances and navigate the complex political and legal landscape will be crucial in determining the fate of the FLDS community.
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