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Quantico Today
By the People, for the People
Arizona Sheriff Blocks FBI Access to Evidence in Nancy Guthrie Abduction
Pima County Sheriff denies FBI request to process key evidence at national crime lab, delaying investigation
Published on Feb. 13, 2026
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A U.S. law enforcement official has revealed that an Arizona sheriff is blocking the FBI's access to crucial evidence in the investigation into the abduction of Savannah Guthrie's mother, Nancy Guthrie. The sheriff has insisted on using a private lab in Florida to process the evidence, including a glove and DNA samples, rather than allowing the FBI's national crime lab in Quantico, Virginia to analyze it. This move is delaying the FBI's ability to assist in the high-profile case, which has stretched into its 12th day with no proof of life for the 84-year-old victim.
Why it matters
The sheriff's decision to deny the FBI access to the evidence is seen as impeding the federal agency's ability to lend its resources and expertise to the investigation. This could prolong the search for Nancy Guthrie and delay justice for the Guthrie family, who have been pleading for her safe return. The case highlights potential tensions between local and federal law enforcement, as well as questions about the most effective way to leverage all available investigative tools.
The details
According to the law enforcement official, the FBI requested physical evidence such as a glove and DNA samples from Nancy Guthrie's home, but Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos has insisted on using a private lab in Florida instead. This effectively denies the FBI access to crucial evidence that could aid the investigation. The official stated that the county has already spent around $200,000 to send evidence to the Florida lab. The sheriff's department has confirmed recovering several items of evidence, including gloves, but did not elaborate further.
- Nancy Guthrie was last seen on January 31 when family dropped her off at her home following an evening dinner.
- Relatives reported her missing the following day, February 1.
- The search for Nancy Guthrie has stretched into its 12th day as of February 12.
The players
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos
The sheriff who is blocking the FBI's access to key evidence in the Nancy Guthrie abduction case.
Savannah Guthrie
The 54-year-old co-anchor of the NBC News morning show 'Today' and Nancy Guthrie's daughter.
Nancy Guthrie
The 84-year-old mother of Savannah Guthrie who was abducted from her home near Tucson, Arizona.
FBI
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, which has requested access to physical evidence in the case but has been denied by the Pima County Sheriff.
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the FBI access to the evidence held by the Pima County Sheriff's Department.
The takeaway
This case highlights the potential tensions and challenges that can arise when local and federal law enforcement agencies have differing priorities or approaches in high-profile criminal investigations. Effective collaboration and the timely sharing of resources are crucial to ensuring justice is served and families receive the answers they desperately seek.
