Polygamous Exiles Worry Some in the Oklahoma Panhandle

A family who was excommunicated from Warren Jeffs’ polygamous sect has moved to a small city located in the Oklahoma Panhandle, raising concerns among some residents.

George Barlow served as mayor of Colorado City, Arizona, from 2011 to 2013.

Jeffs is serving a life sentence for sexually assaulting two of his child brides.

Barlow worked remotely in that role from North Dakota before resigning from the position and moving to Boise City, a small city about 330 miles northwest of Oklahoma City and in the westernmost county of the state. He tells The Oklahoman he was excommunicated from the church.

Several of Barlow’s brothers have also moved to the area.

About 300 people recently gathered into the local banquet hall to discuss their concerns about the new residents.