Criticism Grows Over Investigation of Missing Arizona Woman
Investigation Under Scrutiny
Following the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie from her Tucson-area home nearly two months ago, concerns have surfaced regarding the investigation's management, putting pressure on the local sheriff. The 84-year-old, mother of Savannah Guthrie, was last seen on January 31 and reported missing the next day. Authorities suspect she may have been abducted, as traces of her blood were discovered on her porch. In February, the FBI released footage from a doorbell camera showing a masked individual near her residence on the night she vanished. Despite ongoing efforts, no suspects have been identified, and significant progress in the case remains elusive.
In a recent interview, former Pima County sheriff Richard Carmona criticized the current sheriff, Chris Nanos, for his management of the crime scene. Dr. Carmona expressed that it was inappropriate for Sheriff Nanos to personally announce the reopening of the investigation site at Guthrie's home, stating, “That's not something a sheriff does.” He emphasized that such decisions should be made by the lead detective, who can confirm that all necessary evidence has been properly collected.
Dr. Carmona also highlighted a concerning incident where a Domino’s delivery driver approached the house during the investigation, with deputies present failing to intervene. He remarked, “If you're going to court and you're making a case, a defense attorney says, ‘That crime scene was corrupted—you had people delivering pizzas.’” He warned that once a crime scene is compromised, its integrity cannot be restored.
Furthermore, Dr. Carmona pointed out the potential impact on public trust in law enforcement. He stated, “The public has to have trust in its law enforcement agency. You cannot lead without trust.” He criticized Sheriff Nanos for frequently changing his statements, which could erode public confidence.
In a separate development, the Pima County Deputies Organization, representing over 300 sheriff's department members, unanimously passed a no-confidence vote against Sheriff Nanos on March 24, urging his resignation. This vote followed a report revealing discrepancies in Nanos's resignation from the El Paso Police Department in 1982, which was two years earlier than indicated on his résumé, to avoid disciplinary action.
On Tuesday, the Pima County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to require Sheriff Nanos to answer questions under oath, referencing a law that could lead to his removal if he fails to comply. In defense of his department's actions, Sheriff Nanos stated, “I have no regrets about my team and their efforts.” Pima County Supervisor Matt Heinz previously remarked that the sheriff had “betrayed the trust that our community placed in him,” emphasizing that without trust, effective leadership is impossible.
In an earlier statement, the Pima County Sheriff’s Department asserted that Sheriff Nanos has shown a strong commitment to professionalism and accountability throughout his extensive law enforcement career, maintaining a focus on the safety of Pima County residents.