ELDORADO, Texas -- Child Protective Services in Texas is defending its actions at the polygamous compound in Eldorado, Texas, now that mothers are coming forward to protest the separation from their children.

Custody hearing tomorrow

azfamily.com

LINK: No arrest after Tx. Rangers meet with FLDS abuse suspect

LINK: Children removed from polygamist compound

Last week, CPS sent away about 50 mothers who voluntarily left the FLDS compound when their children were removed. Only women with children younger than 4 were allowed to remain at the shelter where the kids are staying.

CPS officials said they believe separating the mothers from the children will allow the kids to be more honest and open about allegedly abuse that might have taken place at the Yearning for Zion Ranch.

Despite some tears, CPS said the move went smoothly.

"There was some sadness among the children," said CPS spokewoman Marleigh Meisner. "There were some tears. We did have staff available, as well as therapists available, to talk this through with the children."

A custody hearing for the children is scheduled for tomorrow.

3TV's Mike Watkiss will bring you the very latest as it happens.