Wanda Elaine Barzee, born on June 11, 1945, in Salt Lake City, UT, gained notoriety for her involvement in the kidnapping of Elizabeth Smart alongside her husband, Brian David Mitchell. Barzee was convicted of state and federal crimes related to the abduction and in 2010, she was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison.
Before her criminal activities, Barzee was known for her skill as an organ player. She had a passion for music and was once an accomplished musician. However, her life took a dark turn when she became involved in the abduction of Elizabeth Smart.
Barzee's family life was tumultuous. Her mother, Dora Corbett, played a role in shaping her upbringing. Barzee had six children of her own, but her personal relationships were marred by difficulties. In 1984, she divorced her husband Talmage Thompson, and the following year, she married Brian David Mitchell, her partner in crime.
In 2018, Barzee was released from prison, sparking controversy and public outrage. Her early release raised questions about the justice system and the handling of cases involving serious crimes like kidnapping.
Barzee's criminal activities drew comparisons to other infamous kidnappers like Ariel Castro. Both Barzee and Castro perpetrated heinous acts of abduction, inflicting trauma on their victims and their families.
The story of Wanda Elaine Barzee is a tragic tale of a once-promising musician who succumbed to the dark side of human nature. Her involvement in the kidnapping of Elizabeth Smart brought her notoriety and consequences that will forever shape her legacy.
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