Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos is accused of refusing assistance from search and rescue teams during the early stages of the investigation into Nancy Guthrie's disappearance. The United Cajun Navy, a volunteer organization that collaborates with law enforcement for search and rescue operations, stated that they offered help multiple times but were denied by the sheriff's office, according to vice president Brian Trascher in an interview with NewsNation.
Trascher indicated that the refusal was due to a "blanket declaration from the sheriff’s office" not to accept outside help. He expressed concern that Guthrie, who is 84 years old, could have been located along the border and that their involvement could have provided closure for her family.
Trascher mentioned that the United Cajun Navy had submitted a detailed plan to Sheriff Nanos, outlining the resources they could provide, such as K-9 and drone teams. He noted that their resources would be less effective now that more time has passed since the abduction.
This incident is not the first time Sheriff Nanos has faced criticism for rejecting assistance. FBI Director Kash Patel claimed that the FBI was not permitted to investigate the crime scene until four days after Guthrie was reported missing, despite agents being on-site immediately. Patel also stated that Nanos declined the FBI's offer to analyze DNA evidence found at the scene, opting instead for a private laboratory.
The sheriff's office has denied these allegations, asserting that the FBI was notified promptly and that an agent was working alongside local police from the outset. The Daily Beast has contacted the sheriff's office for additional comments.