Jeffs Slows Trial With Defense Presentation

SAN ANGELO, Texas (AP) _ Polygamist church leader Warren Jeffs has dramatically slowed down his sexual assault trial as he begins presenting his defense.

Jeffs gave a delayed opening statement about religious persecution Wednesday, then called church member JD Roundy to testify.

Jeffs is the ecclesiastical head of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Roundy answered questions about the church’s beliefs, with Jeffs pausing for a few minutes after each answer before asking another question.

Jeffs’ trial had been going at breakneck speed, with prosecutors presenting witness after witness while Jeffs largely sat silent.

His sect believes polygamy brings exaltation in heaven. The church’s 10,000 members see Jeffs as a prophet who speaks for God on Earth.

Jeffs is accused of sexually assaulting two girls, the 12-year-old and a 15-year-old.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)

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