Tuscon Sheriff Addresses Reports on Nancy Guthrie’s Disappearance
Tuscon, Ariz. — Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos stated that no gloves were found at Nancy Guthrie’s residence, countering claims of tension between his department and the FBI.
“We don’t have gloves. We’ve never found gloves on that property,” Nanos mentioned during an interview with a Fox News correspondent. He categorically denied any allegations suggesting that his department wasn’t cooperating with federal authorities.
When asked about suggestions that the FBI was hesitant to engage, he reacted strongly, calling such ideas “crazy.” He questioned the premise, stating, “Why would we be reluctant to involve partners with excellent resources?”
Nanos emphasized that the department hasn’t received any actionable information from others. “There’s no ego here. This is solely about finding Nancy,” he assured.
He expressed confidence in the FBI’s presence and support, pointing out that federal agents were actively collaborating with his team right at the scene. “They’ve been out there all day trying to find her,” Nanos said.
On the topic of evidence handling, Nanos defended the decision to use private laboratories instead of dividing evidence among various facilities, including the FBI’s crime lab in Quantico, Virginia. He mentioned that DNA samples from Guthrie’s family had already been sent to that lab early in the investigation.
“It’s more efficient to keep everything in one place,” he explained. Splitting evidence could lead to conflicts, causing unnecessary complications. “Let’s just send it to one lab and go from there,” he stated.
Nanos acknowledged the expertise of the FBI crime lab, but reiterated that the current approach was simply more straightforward given the circumstances.
He indicated that all ransom-related communications were handed over to the FBI, who are considered the specialists in that area. “It wouldn’t be appropriate for me to discuss what I’ve told them regarding that,” he noted.
Authorities suspect that a kidnapping occurred but remain open to all possibilities. Nanos clarified that while they might deprioritize certain suspects, no one has been completely ruled out yet.
He also resisted accusations regarding the early release of the crime scene, asserting that all necessary evidence had been collected efficiently. “We collect the evidence, and then we leave,” he explained. Currently, a deputy vehicle is stationed outside the Guthrie home for the family’s security, fulfilling their request for protection.
In this ongoing investigation, a timeline of Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance has emerged, marking significant events on January 31 and February 1, which are crucial to understanding the situation better.
