Boys in sect may have been abused

Texas child welfare authorities say they are investigating whether young boys were sexually abused at a polygamist sect’s ranch. The move is part of a massive investigation triggered by allegations that girls were forced into underage marriages and sex.

Carey Cockerell, the head of the state’s Department of Family and Protective Services, told state lawmakers the investigation was based on “discussions with the boys.”

Members of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints responded sharply, saying state authorities were misleading the public to cover up their errors in the case.