Attorney General Todd Blanche has indicated that the FBI may not take over the search for Nancy Guthrie, the mother of Today show host Savannah Guthrie, six months after her disappearance. Blanche, recently appointed by President Donald Trump, stated in an interview that while federal resources are available to support local authorities, the FBI will not necessarily "take over" the investigation.
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos has been leading the search for the 84-year-old Guthrie, who was last seen on January 31. The Sheriff's Office has faced scrutiny over its handling of the case, including accusations from FBI Director Kash Patel that Nanos allegedly delayed federal involvement. "Whether the FBI takes the lead, we are there to support," Blanche told Meet the Press host Kristen Welker. "We're going to continue to do that. Whether we come in with sharp elbows and take it over, that's not necessarily the right thing to do for her."
Blanche acknowledged the heartbreaking nature of the case and expressed regret for the lack of updates, assuring that federal authorities would continue to prioritize the investigation with resources and focus. "It's a horrible situation, and I share the grief and frustration that you and your colleagues have, and that the whole country has, in this situation," he said.
Recent reports have highlighted alleged missteps by the Pima County Sheriff's Office. According to The Wall Street Journal, the department's senior pilot was reassigned to patrol duty following a workplace complaint in February, leaving its surveillance aircraft without an operator. The aircraft, equipped with infrared cameras, was not deployed until late on February 1, by which time darkness limited its effectiveness. Detectives have also been accused of dismissing dried blood found on Guthrie's porch as unrelated to the abduction.
Sheriff Nanos stated that his department is working diligently with partners, including assistance from "corporate America," and that the case is "not cold."
On the six-month anniversary of her mother's disappearance, Savannah Guthrie made an emotional plea to those involved, vowing to "never stop looking for answers." She described the ongoing agony and despair the family has endured since her mother was taken and urged anyone with information to come forward anonymously, mentioning that a reward is available. "We will never stop looking for answers, and we will never stop looking for the light," she wrote on Instagram. "We will always be hoping and praying and believing in the best of our world, in spite of circumstance. Please. Bring her home."