A jury has concluded that two polygamous towns in Arizona and Utah violated the constitutional rights of nonbelievers by denying them police protection, building permits and water hookups.

The verdict Monday in the civil rights case marks one of boldest victories by the government in its efforts to confront what critics have long said was a corrupt regime in Colorado City, Arizona, and Hildale, Utah.

The towns were accused of doing the bidding of a polygamist sect. The towns deny the allegations.

The seven-week trial provided a rare glimpse into the communities that for years have been shrouded in secrecy and are distrustful of government and outsiders.

Because the jury concluded the cities committed constitutional violations, a federal judge will later impose remedies.