Home Salt Lake City Press Releases 2009 Statement of U.S. Attorney Brett Tolman U.S. v. Wanda Barzee
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Statement of U.S. Attorney Brett Tolman U.S. v. Wanda Barzee

U.S. Attorney’s Office November 17, 2009
  • District of Utah (801) 524-5682

“The agreement entered into today by Wanda Barzee and the U.S. Attorney’s Office is an appropriate resolution of this case. I am pleased with the progress today’s agreement represents. I express our appreciation to the Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office, the FBI, and the Salt Lake City Police Department for their continued partnership in the investigation and prosecution of this case.

“Today’s agreement means that Elizabeth Smart will not have to testify at trial against Ms. Barzee. It is our belief that this outcome will begin to bring long-awaited closure to Elizabeth and her family.

“Ms. Barzee pleaded guilty to all charges in the indictment—kidnapping and unlawful transportation of a minor. She stipulated to facts today that describe her conduct in the case.

“Additionally, Ms. Barzee has agreed to fully cooperate with the United States and the State of Utah in the prosecutions of Brian David Mitchell pending in state and federal courts. The plea agreement is conditioned on her continuing cooperation. We will ask that her sentencing date be continued to allow for her continued cooperation with the government. If Ms. Barzee fails to fully cooperate, we will move to withdraw the plea agreement.

“In exchange for Ms. Barzee’s full and truthful cooperation with the United States and the State of Utah in the prosecution of Brian David Mitchell, we have agreed to a sentence of 15 years (180 months) for Ms. Barzee. We believe a 15-year sentence is just and fair under the circumstances.”

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