Pima County Sheriff Defends Response in Nancy Guthrie Case

Sheriff Chris Nanos addresses concerns over crime scene release and cooperation with FBI.

Feb. 19, 2026 at 9:07am

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In a one-on-one interview, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos discussed the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie. Nanos defended his team's handling of the crime scene, stating they are experienced experts who have solved numerous difficult cases. He also addressed rumors of tension between his department and the FBI, saying they have always worked well together on this case.

Why it matters

The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie has captivated the Tucson community, and there is intense public scrutiny over the law enforcement response. Sheriff Nanos' comments aim to reassure the public that his department is doing everything possible to find answers and cooperating fully with federal authorities.

The details

Sheriff Nanos said his team of investigators spent about 20 hours processing the crime scene at Guthrie's home before releasing it. He defended his experts, stating "I'll put their solvency rate against anybody in the nation in terms of those difficult crimes, homicides." Nanos also responded to social media rumors of tension between his department and the FBI, saying they have always worked well together on this case. He urged the public to continue submitting any tips, no matter how small.

  • Nancy Guthrie was last seen on January 31 at 9:45 p.m. when her daughter dropped her off at her Tucson home.
  • Sheriff Nanos' interview with ABC15 took place on February 17, 2026.

The players

Chris Nanos

The Pima County Sheriff, who is leading the investigation into Nancy Guthrie's disappearance.

Nancy Guthrie

A Tucson resident who went missing on January 31, 2026.

Ford Hatchett

An ABC15 reporter who conducted the one-on-one interview with Sheriff Nanos.

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What they’re saying

“I have a team of investigators and a forensic team that process crime scenes all the time, have done so for decades. They have solved hundreds if not thousands of cases. They're my experts. I have to rely on them.”

— Chris Nanos, Pima County Sheriff (abc15.com)

“I'll put their solvency rate against anybody in the nation in terms of those difficult crimes, homicides.”

— Chris Nanos, Pima County Sheriff (abc15.com)

What’s next

The Pima County Sheriff's Office and FBI continue to investigate Nancy Guthrie's disappearance, urging the public to submit any relevant tips or information.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of public trust in law enforcement's handling of high-profile missing persons investigations. Sheriff Nanos' comments aim to reassure the community that his experienced team is doing everything possible to find answers, while also dispelling rumors of inter-agency tensions that could hinder the probe.