• Wanda Barzee, who kidnapped Elizabeth Smart, was arrested for violating her probation by visiting public parks in Salt Lake City.
• Barzee and her husband Mitchell kidnapped Smart in 2002, and she was found nine months later.
• Elizabeth Smart opposed Barzee’s early release, citing safety concerns for children and families.

Police arrested Wanda Barzee on Thursday after she visited two public parks in Salt Lake City. Barzee is known for kidnapping Elizabeth Smart in 2002. Her probation bans her from going to public parks because she is a registered sex offender. Police say she went to Liberty Park and Sugar House Park. Both are located less than ten miles from her home. When questioned, Barzee told police that God told her to go to the parks, sit on benches, and feed ducks. But court records clearly state she must avoid places like parks, stay in contact with authorities weekly, and avoid breaking the law. By entering the parks, she broke her probation and now faces new charges.

Elizabeth Smart’s Kidnapping Shocked the Nation in 2002

Barzee and her husband Brian David Mitchell kidnapped 14-year-old Elizabeth Smart from her bedroom in Salt Lake City. They entered through an open window while Smart slept. Mitchell held a knife and forced her to leave. He claimed to be a religious prophet. Together with Barzee, he took Smart to a hidden campsite in the mountains. Later, they moved her to San Diego. Mitchell raped Smart regularly. Barzee supported and enabled his actions. They kept Smart in poor conditions and cut her off from the world. She lived in fear for nine months while the world searched for her.

A Stranger Helped Rescue Elizabeth Smart From Kidnapper Nine Months Later

In March 2003, a man saw the trio walking in Sandy, Utah. He thought the girl looked like Elizabeth Smart. He called the police immediately. Officers responded fast. They found Smart with Mitchell and Barzee and confirmed her identity. Police arrested both kidnappers on the spot. The news shocked and relieved the nation. Smart’s safe return gave hope to many families facing similar pain. Her rescue became one of the most well-known kidnapping cases in the country.

Brian David Mitchell Sentenced to Life in Prison

The court sentenced Mitchell to life in prison for his crimes. He was found guilty of kidnapping and rape. He will never leave prison. Mitchell used religion to defend his actions, but the jury didn’t believe him. The evidence showed that he was dangerous and abusive. Mitchell’s sentence gave some justice to Smart and her family.

Elizabeth Smart Kidnapper Got a Shorter Sentence and Early Release

In 2010, the court gave Barzee a 15-year prison sentence. But in 2018, Utah officials released her five years early. They admitted they had miscalculated her prison time. Many people, including Smart, were outraged. Barzee left prison without showing real regret. Her release included five years of supervised freedom. She also had to go through mental health treatment and stay away from Smart’s family. Still, Smart didn’t feel safe. She wanted Barzee placed in a mental health facility instead of being released.

Elizabeth Smart Strongly Opposed Barzee’s Release

Elizabeth Smart spoke out against Barzee’s early release. She shared how Barzee treated her during the kidnapping. Barzee called her a handmaiden and acted like she owned her. Smart said Barzee made her suffering worse. She never saw kindness from her captor. Smart believed Barzee was still dangerous. She wanted stronger protections for other children and families. She called on the justice system to take these risks seriously.

Smart Warned the Public About the Risks

Barzee moved into an apartment near an elementary school after her release. This upset Smart even more. She warned that former sex offenders should not live near schools or parks. In a public statement, Smart said the safety of children must come first. She said the past behavior of people like Barzee should never be ignored. Smart demanded strong safety rules to protect communities and urged the public to stay alert.

Elizabeth Smart Kidnapper Faces More Legal Trouble for Violating Probation

Now, Barzee may go back to jail for breaking her probation. Visiting parks was clearly against the rules of her release. Police and the courts will review her case. If found guilty of violating terms, she could lose her freedom again. This new arrest adds to public concern. Many still believe Barzee is a threat to others. Officials must now decide what comes next for her.

Elizabeth Smart Continues to Inspire Survivors Everywhere

Today, Elizabeth Smart lives a strong and full life. She is married and has children. She speaks publicly, writes books, and supports victims of crime. Her voice continues to empower survivors. She proves that healing is possible. Smart’s story reminds us that justice matters and that communities must stay alert and protect the vulnerable.