Wanda Barzee Arrested for Violating Sex Offender Restrictions After 20 Years

Wanda Barzee Arrested for Alleged Violations of Sex Offender Laws

Wanda Barzee, a notorious figure in a high-profile kidnapping case involving Elizabeth Smart, was apprehended recently for purportedly breaching sex offender regulations. The arrest took place at Barzee’s residence in Salt Lake City, Utah. Authorities reported that she visited at least two parks, actions prohibited for registered sex offenders under state law.

Details of the Arrest

During her arrest, Barzee claimed that she was guided by a divine command to visit Liberty Park. She explained that she enjoyed sitting on benches and feeding ducks. Furthermore, reports indicate that she stated God had impressed upon her the need to visit Sugar House Park as well.

Understanding Utah’s Sex Offender Law

In Utah, individuals classified as sex offenders face strict regulations, including avoiding certain “protected areas”. These areas encompass public parks, where Barzee allegedly frequented, violating her probation terms.

The Background of Elizabeth Smart’s Kidnapping

The case dates back to 2002 when Barzee and her then-husband, Brian David Mitchell, kidnapped Elizabeth Smart, a 14-year-old girl, at knifepoint. Smart endured nine months of captivity, during which she was manipulated into a polygamous marriage and suffered repeated sexual assaults. Her rescue occurred after a vigilant couple recognized her while she was walking with Barzee and Mitchell in Sandy, a suburb near Salt Lake City.

Initially, Smart hesitated to identify herself to the authorities due to her fear. However, she eventually confirmed her identity as the missing teenager, prompting the arrest of Barzee and Mitchell.

Court Sentencing and Release

Following their apprehension, Barzee faced several court hearings and received a 15-year sentence for aggravated kidnapping. Notably, she cooperated with law enforcement, assisting in the conviction of Mitchell, who received a life sentence. Barzee was released from prison in 2018 and placed under a five-year period of federal supervision, in addition to being registered as a sex offender. As part of her parole conditions, she was instructed to refrain from contacting Smart’s family.

Reactions to Barzee’s Recent Arrest

After Barzee’s most recent run-in with the law, Ed Smart, Elizabeth Smart’s father, conveyed his concerns through local media. Although he expressed confidence that Barzee did not pose a direct threat to his daughter, he felt she remained a risk to other children.

Ed Smart commented, “I don’t think Wanda is a threat to Elizabeth. Would I want her around kids? Absolutely not. The comment ‘God told me to’ leaves one with a wide-open excuse to do anything.” His statements highlight the ongoing fears surrounding Barzee’s behavior and motivations.

Defense Claims

Conversely, Barzee’s attorney, Scott Williams, expressed confidence that his client was unaware of her violation of sex offender laws. He stated, “I’m absolutely confident she did not know she was violating her status.” Williams firmly believed that Barzee did not pose any risk to the community.

Public Perception and Implications

The response to Barzee’s arrest underscores society’s ongoing concerns regarding sex offenders and their integration back into communities. The dynamics of her release and subsequent legal troubles invite discussions about the effectiveness of monitoring systems and the psychological aspects of rehabilitation. Local authorities and community members remain vigilant as they navigate the complexities involving individuals like Barzee.

Furthermore, the incident raises significant questions about the adequacy of supervision provided to former offenders. Despite Barzee’s claims of divine inspiration, many believe that such statements might reflect deeper psychological issues that require comprehensive treatment.

A Continued Vigilance

The events surrounding Wanda Barzee’s recent arrest serve as a stark reminder of the implications associated with high-profile criminal cases. The community remains watchful, striving to balance rehabilitation with protection for vulnerable individuals, particularly children.

Society must grapple with the persistent effects of trauma stemming from cases like Smart’s. Survivors and their families continue advocating for protective measures while seeking justice and support from local authorities.

Looking Forward

The ongoing developments in Barzee’s legal situation will undoubtedly attract media attention. As the case unfolds, it emphasizes the need for a thoughtful approach to probation and rehabilitation for individuals convicted of serious crimes. The community’s concerns will likely shape the discussions about how to effectively handle such sensitive matters in the future.