Elizabeth Smart Kidnapper Arrested for Parole Violation

Wanda Barzee, convicted for her role in the 2002 kidnapping and abuse of then-14-year-old Elizabeth Smart, was arrested in Salt Lake City for violating supervised release conditions prohibiting registered sex offenders from entering public parks. Barzee, 79, admitted to visiting Liberty Park and Sugar House Park, explaining she was 'commanded to by the Lord' and enjoyed sitting on benches and feeding ducks. She was booked on charges related to the violation and released pending potential formal charges. Barzee had previously served 15 years in prison and was released in 2018, despite warnings from Elizabeth Smart, who has described Barzee as a continuing threat. Her husband, Brian David Mitchell, is serving a life sentence. The incident underscores ongoing challenges in monitoring high-profile offenders after their release.