Union chief flags inexperience in Nancy Guthrie probe

The investigation into Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance was hampered by inexperienced detectives and poor coordination from the start, according to Sergeant Aaron Cross, president of the Pima County Deputies Organization. Cross told TMZ that some detectives had only three years of experience, and the lead sergeant had never worked homicide before his promotion in 2023. He said the two most senior homicide detectives had been transferred to cold cases after refusing a commander’s demand to make a premature arrest.

Cross identified the early release of the crime scene as a major misstep, saying it was handed back to the family the very next day without cause. He also noted tensions with the FBI, though he credited the agency for finding crucial Ring camera footage. Cross accused the sheriff’s department of trying to solve the case 'from behind a desk.', which he said was unlikely to succeed.

Sheriff Chris Nanos, who has faced criticism over his handling of the case, said in a video on August 1 that the team remains committed. Nancy Guthrie has been missing for over six months. No arrests have been made, and the case is still active.