The Nephite government fell with the murder of the chief judge, Lachoneus II. An apostate then became king over the secret combination responsible for disintegration, and society fragmented into tribes. All this happened because the people “did yield themselves unto the power of Satan” and allowed a secret combination to flourish. Years ago, President Ezra Taft Benson raised a warning: “I testify that wickedness is rapidly expanding in every segment of our society. (See D&C 1:14–16; 84:49–53.) It is more highly organized, more cleverly disguised, and more powerfully promoted than ever before. Secret combinations lusting for power, gain, and glory are flourishing. A secret combination that seeks to overthrow the freedom of all lands, nations, and countries is increasing its evil influence and control over America and the entire world. (See Ether 8:18–25.)”7