Podcast Summary: The Deck – Episode: Patricia Barrett (2 of Hearts, Utah)
Host: audiochuck
Release Date: October 9, 2024

Introduction

In this poignant episode of The Deck, host Ashley Flowers delves into the heart-wrenching cold case of Patricia "Patty" Barrett, symbolized by the 2 of Hearts from Utah. The episode explores Patty's tumultuous life, her mysterious disappearance in 1978, and the relentless efforts of her daughter, Sibi Barrett, to uncover the truth nearly five decades later.

Patty Barrett's Life and Struggles

Patty Barrett, affectionately known as Patty, was a vibrant woman from Dallas who struggled with schizophrenia. Her condition led her to frequently relocate in search of peace, ultimately bringing her to Salt Lake City. Patty's battle with mental illness was a significant factor in her nomadic lifestyle.

Sibi Barrett reflects on her mother's personality changes over time:

"In my earliest memories, Patty was smart and pretty and had a hilariously dry sense of humor. But over time, she became quieter, less present. And then she began experiencing symptoms of paranoia."
[02:00]

Patty's paranoia often drove her to flee her surroundings, relying on Social Security disability checks to fund her escapes. This instability strained her relationship with her daughter, Sibi, who was only eight when Patty was diagnosed.

The Disappearance and Discovery

In August 1978, Patty made a decisive move to Salt Lake City, hoping for a safer and more tranquil life. However, just weeks after her arrival, Patty was murdered, leaving her family in uncertainty for over 45 years.

Sibi Barrett recounts the last communication with her mother:

"Patty felt like she needed to get up into the mountains and needed to be somewhere safer than in the city."
[05:22]

On day nine after her move, Sibi received a distressing call from Patty informing her of an arrest for loitering. Patty had been staying in a public community building's women's bathroom but failed to call again after her release, sparking Sibi's deep concern.

Sibi's Relentless Search

Determined to find answers, Sibi began scouring the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NAMUS) in April 2011, years after Patty's disappearance. Despite numerous challenges, including lost communications and limited information, Sibi's perseverance never waned.

Sibi Barrett shares her emotional journey:

"I just stuck to it and just kept looking and looking... I knew it was her."
[15:36]

Her dedication led her to an unidentified profile on NAMUS that matched Patty's description, despite some inconsistencies. Sibi immediately reached out to the Salt Lake City Missing Persons Bureau, reigniting the investigation.

The Role of NAMUS and Identification

The identification process hinged on advanced DNA technology. Detectives, including Ben Pender, worked closely with Sibi to facilitate DNA matches between Patty's samples and the unidentified Jane Doe discovered in 1978.

Detective Ben Pender explains the initial discovery:

"Detectives called the medical examiner's office... to determine if there was going to be a match."
[16:46]

Four decades later, the DNA match confirmed that the Jane Doe was indeed Patty Barrett, bringing long-awaited closure to her family.

Sibi Barrett expresses her relief:

"I wasn't surprised... the main emotion I felt was actually relief."
[25:30]

Ongoing Investigation and Pursuit of Justice

Despite identifying Patty, the mystery of her murder remains unresolved. Detective Pender emphasizes the importance of continued investigation:

"There's a likelihood this person is still around, and for the sake of the family and the community to get this information back to me to where we can get this resolved."
[29:11]

Sibi remains hopeful for further breakthroughs and strives to prevent her mother's story from being forgotten. Her unwavering commitment serves as a testament to the enduring bond between mother and daughter.

Detective Ben Pender highlights the value of family involvement:

"Families know a different side of the individual than we will probably ever know... it's been helpful to reach out to her."
[27:13]

Conclusion

This episode of The Deck sheds light on the profound impact of mental illness, the challenges of unresolved cases, and the extraordinary lengths to which loved ones will go for justice. Patty Barrett's story, symbolized by the 2 of Hearts, underscores the importance of persistence, family support, and advancements in forensic technology in solving cold cases.

For those with information regarding Patricia "Patty" Barrett's murder or her time in the Salt Lake City Jail, Detective Ben Pender remains an open channel of communication:

• Phone: 385-468-9816
• Email: bpender@saltlakecounty.gov

Notable Quotes:

• Sibi Barrett:
  "I knew... that it has to be her."
  [15:36]

• Detective Ben Pender:
  "In my mind, there's things to do, and as long as there's things to do, that gives me hope."
  [30:11]

The Deck continues its mission each week to bring light to cold cases, collaborating with investigators and families to seek justice for the missing and murdered.