Experts say DNA can sort out polygamists

SAN ANGELO, Texas, April 21 (UPI) -- Experts in DNA analysis think it will be difficult, but not impossible, to match the 416 kids living at a Texas polygamists compound to their true parents.

Scientists told the Salt Lake Tribune that closed communities often have a high degree of shared ancestry; however, there should be enough diversity to figure out who belongs to whom.

"They are not so close we can't tell them apart at the genetic level," said Lynn Jorde, a genetics professor at the University of Utah School of Medicine.

A Texas judge recently ordered DNA testing to begin this week as authorities in San Angelo sort out the convoluted population of the compound owned by the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

The request was made by child protective services officials who said the children had no clear idea who their mothers and fathers are, and the women of the group were vague about their family structures, as well.