Wanda Barzee Arrested for Violating Sex Offender Restrictions
Wanda Barzee, a 79-year-old woman, was taken into custody by the Salt Lake City Police Department on May 1 for allegedly breaching the rules set for her as a registered sex offender.
According to court documents, Barzee entered Liberty Park and Sugarhouse Park, despite being prohibited from visiting public areas. She reportedly told officers that she was directed to do so by the Lord. During her visits, Barzee mentioned feeding ducks and sitting on benches in the parks.
Because of her past conviction for kidnapping Elizabeth Smart—a case that shocked the nation—Barzee is not allowed to go to any parks. A judge confirmed that the police had the right to arrest her without a warrant. After the arrest, she was released later on the same day.
This is Barzee’s first violation as a sex offender, and she faces a class A misdemeanor charge, which could result in up to 364 days in jail. If she violates the terms again, she could face more serious charges.
Barzee was previously imprisoned for 15 years for her involvement in the kidnapping of the then-14-year-old Elizabeth Smart. Smart was held captive and abused for nine months before her eventual rescue in 2003. Following this traumatic event, Smart has openly expressed her concerns about Barzee’s potential threat to society.
Details of Barzee’s upcoming court hearings have not yet been made public.
