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AP Photo NY120, MOEZ105, MOEZ104, MOEZ102, MOEZ106, MOEZ101 By BILL DRAPER and HEATHER HOLLINGSWORTH Associated Press Writers LEXINGTON, Mo. (AP) Five family members charged in a child sex abuse case in western Missouri have made their first court appearance.

The 77-year-old father and his four adult sons are charged with several felonies, including sodomy and rape involving children under 12.

The men appeared in Lafayette County court in orange jumpsuits and with shackles at their wrist, waist and ankles. The judge read the charges against them. The men did not enter pleas and did not appear to have legal representation at the 20-minute hearing.

The men are being held on cash bonds. Their next court hearing is scheduled for Nov. 17.

Meanwhile, authorities were preparing to resume the search for evidence, including possible bodies, on land in nearby Bates City where the abuse allegedly occurred.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 11-12-09 1129CST | save this article / add to your favorites list