Elizabeth Smart's Kidnapper Is Now Living Next To An Elementary School In Utah
Though the name Wanda Barzee may be meaningless to you, Elizabeth Smart is probably not and with reason-she's an incredibly brave survivor. Unfortunately, though, being outspoken about her kidnapping was not enough to keep one of her perpetrators behind bars. Instead, Wanda was released five years early back in September 2018 and...believe it or not...has recently moved close to an elementary school in Utah. Her second home near a school since her release, sources say.
To refresh your memory: Wanda's husband, Brian David Mitchell (who was sentenced to life behind bars,) broke into Elizabeth's home in 2002 and abducted her at knifepoint. For nine months the couple held the then 14-year-old captive, sexually abusing her, and leaving her without food and water for periods of time. That is until she was rescued in 2003.
According to USA Today, Smart called Wanda's early release "incomprehensible," and rightfully so-especially since she then moved into an apartment near Parkview Elementary School.
"Every possible caution and protection should be taken when it comes to protecting our children," Elizabeth shared in a statement with the Associated Press, USA Today reports. "Whether a person is deemed a current threat or if they have a history of child abuse, neglect, sexual violence, et cetera, prudent measures should be taken, including housing them as far away as possible from schools, families and community centers."
Now, Wanda is living near yet another elementary school in Salt Lake City, Utah. To view the national Sex Offender Registry, click here or visit the National Sex Offender Public Website.
[h/t USA Today]
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