West Jordan, USA - Polygamist leader Warren Jeffs refused to sign extradition papers in a West Jordan courtroom on Tuesday. His lead Utah attorney, Wally Bugden said he will "contest" extradition.
An extradition hearing has been set for Nov. 15th.
Jeffs faces charges based on evidence obtained in the 2008 raid on the FLDS Yearning for Zion Ranch near Eldorado, Texas.
Jeffs has been indicted on 2 counts of sexual assault on a minor and one count of bigamy.
Tuesday's hearing was delayed over a dispute between lawyers as to how Jeffs would appear in court. Prosecutors wanted Jeffs to appear in prison clothing with restraints, while Jeffs' attorneys argued that he should appear in a suit without restraints.
The judge ruled that Jeffs could appear in a suit with restraints.
Jeffs was convicted on rape as an accoplice charges in Utah in 2007. On July 27, the Utah Supreme Court reversed Jeffs' convictions and ordered a new trial, citing deficient jury instructions. While the state is waiting for the Supreme Court to clarify its ruling, Barlow said there is no reason why Jeffs can't be sent to Texas. "We don't need him here right now. We think the great state of Texas ought to have the opportunity to try Mr Jeffs on the charges."
But Jeffs' attorney response is "first things first." He said, "Utah is losing. The State of Utah is losing. So what do they want to do? - Send him off to Texas -- let's get rid of Mr Jeffs. We made a mistake prosecuting Mr Jeffs. Let's let Mr. Jeffs be Texas' problem. We're here to protect the rights of Mr. Jeffs."
Budgen has already said if the judge okay's extradition, he will appeal to the Supreme Court.