Elizabeth Smart’s Former Captor Arrested Again for Alleged Violation of Sex Offender Restrictions

Wanda Barzee, the woman convicted for her role in the 2002 kidnapping of Elizabeth Smart, was arrested once again—this time for allegedly violating the terms of her sex offender registration.

Barzee Arrested at Her Home in Salt Lake City

Authorities arrested Barzee on Thursday at her Salt Lake City residence after she reportedly visited two public parks, which is a violation of Utah law for registered sex offenders. During the arrest, she claimed that she was “commanded by the Lord” to visit Liberty Park and Sugar House Park, according to Fox 13 Salt Lake City.

Barzee told officers she enjoyed sitting on benches and feeding ducks and admitted to visiting both parks multiple times.

Sex Offender Restrictions and Legal Boundaries

Under Utah’s protected area restrictions, registered sex offenders are prohibited from entering locations where children typically gather, including schools and public parks. Violating these boundaries can lead to arrest and additional legal penalties.

More details about protected zones can be found via the official Utah Sex Offender Registry.

A Chilling History of the 2002 Kidnapping

In June 2002, Elizabeth Smart was abducted at knifepoint from her bedroom by Brian David Mitchell and his wife, Wanda Barzee. She was only 14 years old at the time. During her nine-month captivity, Smart was held in the mountains outside Salt Lake City, where she endured daily abuse.

Her rescue came in March 2003 after she was recognized by passersby while walking with Mitchell and Barzee. She initially denied her identity out of fear but later confirmed who she was, leading to the arrests of both captors.

Barzee eventually cooperated with the FBI and state prosecutors to secure a conviction against Mitchell, who received a life sentence. Barzee was sentenced to 15 years and released in 2018 under federal supervision.

Reaction from the Smart Family

Elizabeth’s father, Ed Smart, spoke out after Barzee’s most recent arrest. In an interview with KUTV, he said he does not believe Barzee poses a direct threat to his daughter, but still worries about her presence around children.

“I don’t think Wanda is a threat to Elizabeth,” he said. “Would I want her around kids? Absolutely not. The comment ‘God told me to’ leaves one with a wide-open excuse to do anything.”

Legal Defense and Ongoing Monitoring

Barzee’s attorney, Scott Williams, defended her actions, stating she was unaware she was in violation. “I’m confident she didn’t know,” he told reporters. “And I don’t believe she poses a threat to anyone.”

The case is still under investigation, and further legal consequences are pending based on court review and probation terms.

Elizabeth Smart Continues Advocacy Work

Since her rescue, Elizabeth Smart has dedicated her life to advocacy, speaking out about child safety, abuse prevention, and recovery. She continues to educate families and policymakers through her foundation and public appearances.