Arizona Sheriff at Odds with FBI in High-Stakes Abduction Case

A dispute has erupted between an Arizona sheriff and the FBI over evidence in the investigation of Nancy Guthrie's alleged abduction. The Pima County Sheriff opted to use a private lab, causing delays. The case, involving NBC journalist Savannah Guthrie's mother, remains unsolved as the search intensifies.

In Arizona, a clash has emerged between local law enforcement and the FBI concerning the investigation into the alleged abduction of Nancy Guthrie, mother of prominent NBC journalist Savannah Guthrie. The controversy arises from Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos' decision to use a private laboratory in Florida instead of the FBI's crime lab to analyze key evidence such as DNA and gloves.

This decision, according to a U.S. law enforcement official, has hindered the FBI's involvement and delayed progress in solving the case. Despite the FBI's requests, Nanos holds firm in his choice, asserting that the lab is familiar with his department's procedures. He also argues that this course of action has been agreed upon in consultation with the FBI.

Amid growing tension, investigators have intensified their search, spurred by recently surfaced video evidence of a suspect. The FBI has increased the reward for information leading to Nancy Guthrie's whereabouts or the arrest and conviction of a suspect. The mystery deepens as family members appeal for public assistance in finding Guthrie, who disappeared under troubling circumstances.

(With inputs from agencies.)