UPDATE: Wanda Barzee Released From Prison

DRAPER, Utah – Wanda Barzee, the co-conspirator in the kidnapping of Elizabeth Smart, was released from prison.

Officials discharged Barzee surreptitiously sometime Wednesday morning, bypassing multiple media outlets stationed outside the Utah State Prison.

She was listed on Utah’s Sex Offender Registry shortly thereafter.

“Without doubt the past few weeks have been a rollercoaster of emotion, and I would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone for their kind words, support, and concern,” Elizabeth Smart posted on her Instagram account following Barzee’s release. “It has meant so much to me. May we all remain vigilant in watching over our families, friends, and community from anyone who would seek to hurt or take advantage. I truly believe life is meant to be happy and beautiful, and no matter what happens that will remain my goal for me and for my family.”

 

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Without doubt the past few weeks have been a rollercoaster of emotion, and I would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone for their kind words, support, and concern. It has meant so much to me. May we all remain vigilant in watching over our families, friends, and community from anyone who would seek to hurt or take advantage. I truly believe life is meant to be happy and beautiful, and no matter what happens that will remain my goal for me and for my family.

A post shared by Elizabeth Smart (@elizabeth_smart_official) on Sep 19, 2018 at 7:35am PDT

Barzee will not be allowed to possess a firearm or other dangerous weapon. She must also comply with the sex offender registration act, participate in a mental health treatment program, and take any prescribed mental health medications.

Officials who are dealing with Barzee’s parole have said she will be under strict supervision.

“You can be assured that Wanda Barzee will be closely monitored,” said U.S. Attorney John Huber. “And if she falls off track of what her requirements are — her supervision requirements — that’s a very short leash.”

Ed Smart, Elizabeth Smart’s father, said he was initially told Barzee wouldn’t be monitored. However, he’s hopeful the system will keep her in check.

“(I’m) really banking on the federal system to check up on her and hope that she will take and have the mental treatments that she needs,” he said.

Ed Smart said he’s concerned because Barzee appears to have not made any effort to change.

He said it also appears she does not have a good support system.

“I mean, her children don’t want her back,” Smart said. “I don’t know of anyone who does at the moment, which is too bad. I would think that a mother would hopefully be of a mindset that she loves her children and would do anything to help them.”

He added that he hopes she can find a setting where she won’t hurt anyone.