SALT LAKE CITY -- A new exposé on a polygamist community in Canada is shedding light on a secretive world.

"There's definitely jealousy in plural marriage," says one of the wives of Winston Blackmore, the leader of a polygamous community of about 500 people in Bountiful, British Columbia.

"I love those girls, I really truly do," says another of Blackmore's estimated 25 wives.

While the special was being put together, Blackmore welcomed his 121st child. "I hope he grows up to honor his father and mother," the new mother says.

But tradition isn't necessarily being followed in this close-knit community. Some women live in traditional, monogamous marriages. Blackmore's group broke away from former Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints leader Warren Jeffs in 2001.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police arrested 52-year-old Blackmore last January. He was charged with bigamy and sexual exploitation.

A judge later quashed those charges, ruling the province did not have the authority to appoint a special prosecutor to consider Blackmore's case after previous prosecutors recommended against charges.

This month's issue of National Geographic, as well as a television special beginning Feb. 10 on the National Geographic Channel, explores the lives of several polygamist communities.

E-mail: athomas@ksl.com