Judge Barbara Walther also ordered court DNA testing for all 416 children who lived at the YFZ (Yearning For Zion) Ranch in Eldorado to determine their biological parents.

The compound is run by the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints -- a Mormon offshoot that practices polygamy.

Walther made her ruling after two days of testimony at a hearing to determine whether the children were properly removed by child welfare authorities.

Walther said she found sufficient evidence for Texas Child Protective Services to keep custody of the children.

Officials are now looking for "the very best temporary placements for these children," said Marleigh Meisner, CPS spokeswoman.

"This is not about religion -- this is about keeping children safe from abuse," she added.

An attorney representing some of the children said he planned to appeal the ruling.

"We're a little disappointed in what the process turned out to be," said Cody Towns.

http://www.cnn.com/2008/CRIME/04/18/polygamy.custody/index.html