Natalee Holloway: A Case That Captivated The Nation

The Trial

Nine months after Elizabeth was abducted, Mitchell was spotted traveling with two people in Sandy, Utah by a biker who had seen him on America’s Most Wanted the night before. After alerting police, it was discovered that the two people were Elizabeth Smart, in a grey wig and sunglasses and Wanda Ileen Barzee. Smart was reunited with her family and Mitchell and Barzee were taken into custody.

It took Mitchell’s case almost eight years to get into court because of psychiatric evaluations and general delays. He pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity, which was struck down. He was sentenced to life in prison without parole. Wanda Barzee pled guilty as well and was sentenced to 15 years in prison.