Jury reaches verdict in case against polygamous towns

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PHOENIX (AP) -- A jury has reached a verdict in the trial against two cities in Arizona and Utah accused of functioning as agents of a polygamous sect.

Jurors in U.S. District Court in Phoenix found the two cities violated civil rights and the Federal Fair Housing Act, along with violating the 1st, 4th, and 14th amendments to the constitution.

The U.S. Justice Department alleges Colorado City, Arizona, and Hildale, Utah, discriminate against people who aren't members of the sect by denying them housing, water services and police protection.

The towns deny the allegations and accuse the federal government of persecuting town officials because it disapproves of their religion.

A federal judge will now impose remedies.