Niece of Wanda Barzee Unsure Where Her Aunt Will Go After Prison

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – After hearing the news Wanda Barzee was going to be released from prison, her niece couldn’t help but wonder where she’d go.

For as friendly of a person as Tina Mace is, she has a story she doesn’t share with just anyone.

“It just brings out all those old memories, you know?” she said with tears in her eyes.

Her hesitation wasn’t because of anything she has done. It’s more because of who she is related to.

Related to Wanda Barzee

Mace’s aunt is Barzee, a name familiar to many as the other person involved in the kidnapping of Elizabeth Smart in 2002.

“I wish time could turn back and that she never had the problems in the first place,” said Mace. “Think about the things they did to her. It’s just sick. Just sick.”

It’s easy to understand why she doesn’t often talk about her aunt.

She also knew the day was coming when her aunt would be released from prison.

Mace now knows that day is next week.

“I feel extremely bad for Elizabeth,” said Mace. “I think about Elizabeth all the time. I’m amazed at how well she has been able to move on, and that she has a family and she’s strong. But this has got to be devastating for her.”

It’s also tough for Barzee’s family members when they found out.

Where will she go?

Mace said the last time she spoke to Barzee was when Barzee played the organ for her at her wedding.

“In a way, I’m glad she’s getting out,” Mace said. “But she needs to go somewhere where she can be helped. I don’t think she should be on the street at all. I don’t think she could make it.”

Mace isn’t sure where Barzee will go, or what she will do, after getting out of prison.

However, she feels family members aren’t really able to care for her.

She just hopes her aunt can find peace.

“I guess I just wish the best for her,” said Mace. “I wish that she gets the help that she needs. Maybe there is hope she can be medically taken care of and put on a regimen that she could have some kind of life. I don’t know.”