Pima County Sheriff's Department Issues Warning on Fundraising Scams Amid Nancy Guthrie Investigation

Warning Against Fundraising Scams

The Pima County Sheriff's Department has issued a caution regarding fraudulent fundraising efforts associated with the case of Nancy Guthrie, who has been missing since February 1. The department clarified that there are no legitimate donation campaigns linked to the investigation. In their statement, they emphasized, “Billboard displays are funded through official channels. Any claims suggesting otherwise are fraudulent and will be investigated accordingly.” Authorities have urged the community to be cautious and refrain from sending money to anyone claiming to collect funds for the case.

As the search for Guthrie continues, concerns are mounting among local residents regarding the investigation's progress, which has yet to yield any arrests or identified suspects. The case has raised questions about the handling of the investigation, particularly towards Sheriff Chris Nanos, who has faced backlash over the lack of progress and inconsistencies in his professional history.

Last month, the department's personnel expressed a near-unanimous vote of 'no confidence' in Nanos. Members of the Pima County Board of Supervisors have also voiced their dissatisfaction, with a meeting set for Tuesday to address 'recently reported issues' concerning his record. Former chief deputy Rick Kastigar criticized the investigation's management, stating, 'I believe some of the searches that began within a few days after the fact were reactionary and were pressured by public opinion.' He added, 'Chris is not interested in other perspectives or other opinions of somebody trying to help him.' A recall initiative is currently in progress, which may lead to a special election regarding Nanos's position. Despite the criticism, Nanos has defended the investigation's conduct and asserts that his department has acted appropriately.