Elizabeth Smart recently expressed her concerns about Wanda Barzee, her former abductor, after Barzee violated the terms of her parole as a registered sex offender. In a social media video, Smart described Barzee’s recent arrest for visiting parks in Salt Lake City, which she is legally barred from entering.
Barzee was taken into custody on May 1 after reportedly admitting to visiting these parks in April, claiming her actions were commanded by a higher power. Smart found this alarming, recalling that similar justifications were used during her own abduction in 2002.
In her video, Smart thanked law enforcement for their support and reiterated her worries since Barzee’s early release in 2018. Smart highlighted that not only was Barzee involved in her kidnapping, but she considers her a continual threat, especially due to her extreme religious beliefs. Smart shared that she had learned Barzee still clung to writings by her husband, Brian David Mitchell, who kidnapped Smart when she was just 14 years old.
Smart’s apprehension stems from a belief that Barzee’s actions are not just a concern for her personally, but also for the wider community. Law enforcement stated they will keep a close eye on Barzee as they prioritize any further legal action.
