I don't think this is/was a sex cult. This is an LDS sect (religious cult if you will) that has certainly gone too far. The marriage of a child under the age of consent shouldn't be condoned. Nor is it proper.
It was at one time standard LDS teaching that a person couldn't obtain "Exaltation" without engaging in Celestial Plural Marriage in an LDS Temple. Hence the temple on the ranch in Texas.
The main LDS church renounced polygamy over a 100 years ago. Even when polygamy was accepted, only a tiny percentage of members engaged in it, though it was supposedly required
It also seems the state has gone too far by not allowing the mothers to stay with their children. What is this? guilt by association?
It really takes someone who knows about LDS church history to put all of this into context. It's not a simple case of sex abuse.
Under government duress.
I believe it’s fair to point out the doctrinal beliefs concerning this matter. I generally try to avoid attaching societal labels to religious practices, but in this instance I am compelled to do so, by thinking it sexual abuse.
I believe a reasoned comeback would state that procreation was the ultimate goal. While that may be true, I can’t dismiss the reality of what has been taking place, to view it in the terms of those who would defend the practice.
BTW, I’m no trying to say you support what has been taking place.
Thanks for the comments.