Tucson, Arizona – A federal law enforcement source has confirmed that Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos is reportedly blocking the FBI from accessing key evidence in the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie.
Investigation Stalled?
The evidence in question includes a glove and DNA found inside Guthrie’s Tucson home. Federal officials requested the items be processed at the FBI’s national crime laboratory in Quantico, Virginia, but Sheriff Nanos has insisted on sending the evidence to a private lab in Florida, according to the source.
An official stated to Reuters, “It risks further slowing a case that grows more urgent by the minute,” also citing “earlier setbacks” in the investigation. The Pima County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation, with the FBI’s involvement contingent on a request from local officials.
This development comes as signs of tension between the FBI and the Pima County Sheriff’s Office emerge, nearly two weeks after Nancy Guthrie was reported missing on February 1st. Earlier this week, both agencies released surveillance footage of a masked individual approaching Guthrie’s home shortly before her disappearance.
The FBI has increased the reward for information leading to Nancy Guthrie’s return or an arrest in the case to $100,000. The Pima County Sheriff’s Office has not yet responded to requests for comment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What evidence is the FBI seeking access to?
The FBI has requested a glove and DNA evidence found inside Nancy Guthrie’s home.
Where does Sheriff Nanos want to send the evidence for testing?
Sheriff Nanos intends to send the evidence to a private lab in Florida, with which the Pima County Sheriff’s Office contracts.
When did Nancy Guthrie disappear?
Nancy Guthrie vanished from her Tucson home in the early morning hours of Sunday, February 1, and was reported missing later that same day.
As the investigation continues, what impact will the ongoing dispute over evidence handling have on the search for Nancy Guthrie?
