In a new wide-ranging interview, the sheriff leading the search for Savannah Guthrie's mother Nancy Guthrie, Pima County Sheriff Department's Chris Nanos, broke down some of the prevailing questions surrounding the case.
It has been over 100 days since the TODAY anchor's 84-year-old mother was reported missing. She was last seen the night of January 31 by her daughter and son-in-law near her home in Tucson, Arizona, but was then reported missing the morning after.
Investigators believe that she may have been kidnapped. While the public has received some crucial facts such as a mystery masked individual spotted outside her home, a majority of the investigation so far has taken place outside the spotlight.
© Getty ImagesAn update on communicating with the Guthries
Early in the investigation, the FBI was brought into the fold, collaborating with the Pima County Sheriff's Department on the search as the case received global attention.
Sheriff Nanos explained that in recent weeks, he is no longer directly communicating with the Guthrie family, with that task now taken over by the FBI. Still, he does sympathize with the frustration felt not only by the concerned public, but Nancy's family as well.
© Getty Images"The public is frustrated. Even the Guthrie family," he shared with People. "Every passing second must feel like 100 days because they don't know. What matters is moving forward carefully so we don't make mistakes or falsely accuse somebody or make a bad arrest."
© Hang Out with Sean Hannity/YouTubePCSD vs the FBI
Sheriff Nanos also addressed FBI Director Kash Patel's recent comments about allegedly being "kept out" of the investigation for the first few days, denying his claims.
"Director Patel has his rights to his opinions," he continued, calling some of his statements "factually inaccurate," adding: "The FBI was with us day one. We've always had a working relationship."
He also called out those who were being critical of the way the investigation is being run, specifically the lack of information that is being withheld deliberately. "The sheriff doesn't do the investigation, his team does."
"There are several people dedicated to this team and they are the talent. Criticizing those who are actually out there touching it, smelling it, handling it, doing the work – that's just absolutely shameful. Those young men and women are working hard every day."
© NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal viaAn emphasis on DNA
Currently, Sheriff Nanos noted that the focus is on analyzing and awaiting developments from the forensics department, specifically DNA analysis. "I know we have DNA that is unknown who the contributor or depositor is, but I think they’re getting closer to finding out who that was."
© Getty Images"When the labs tell us, 'Hey, there's nothing else we can do,' well, then maybe we've got a problem… we've got a cold case... but right now, the labs aren't telling us that," he continued.
If you or someone you know can provide information on the case, please contact 88-CRIME or the FBI tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI
