Why was Sheriff Chris Nanos criticized during the Nancy Guthrie search?

Sheriff Nanos faced criticism for attending a college basketball game on a Saturday evening while his department was actively searching for the abducted 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie.

What specific operational issues occurred during the Nancy Guthrie investigation?

Concerns were raised about delays in deploying a critical search aircraft and alleged staffing shortages within the Air Operations Unit that prevented its immediate use.

What is the current status of the search for Nancy Guthrie and what reward is offered?

The search for Nancy Guthrie, who vanished from her Tucson home on January 31st, is ongoing, and the FBI has offered a $50,000 reward for information leading to her recovery or arrests.

Home / Crime and Justice / Sheriff Criticized for Attending Basketball Game During Abduction Search

Sheriff Criticized for Attending Basketball Game During Abduction Search

8 Feb

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Summary

Sheriff Nanos attended a Wildcats basketball game Saturday evening.
His attendance occurred as Savannah Guthrie pleaded for her mother's return.
Critics cite 'tone deaf' decision amid ongoing search efforts.

Sheriff Criticized for Attending Basketball Game During Abduction Search

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos is facing intense scrutiny for attending a University of Arizona basketball game on Saturday evening. This occurred while his deputies were deeply involved in the search for 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, mother of 'Today' show host Savannah Guthrie. The sheriff's absence from active search coordination, while he publicly expressed desperation to find Nancy, has been called "tone deaf" by internal sources. The timing of the sheriff's outing, coinciding with a heartbreaking video plea from Savannah Guthrie and her siblings for their mother's return, has fueled public criticism.

Adding to the controversy, the investigation has been marred by alleged critical errors in its initial hours. These include delays in deploying a high-tech search aircraft equipped with thermal imaging, reportedly due to staffing shortages within the Air Operations Unit. Critics suggest these missteps may have cost investigators crucial time in locating Nancy Guthrie, who vanished from her Tucson home on January 31st. The FBI has since offered a $50,000 reward for information leading to her recovery or the arrest of those involved.