Full Breakdown
Lawsuit Filed Against Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos Amid Ongoing Investigation into Nancy Guthrie's Disappearance
3/10/2026, 8:32:55 AM
Overview of the Lawsuit
Christopher Michael Marx, an inmate at Pima County Jail, has filed a $1.35 million lawsuit against Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos and his department, alleging negligence in adhering to COVID-19 protocols that endangered his life. The lawsuit was submitted to the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona on March 5, 2026. Marx claims that a deputy moved between his unit and a quarantined unit without proper sanitation, which he argues violated Article Two of the Arizona State Constitution, known as the Declaration of Rights.
Allegations of Negligence
Marx's lawsuit details that the deputy, while serving meals, did not disinfect himself after working in the quarantined unit, which posed a significant health risk to inmates. He stated, “This put my life in jeopardy with their action, constantly. I could have died.” Marx is seeking not only financial compensation but also an apology from Sheriff Nanos and a commitment to enforce proper sanitation measures among deputies.
Context of the Investigation into Nancy Guthrie
The lawsuit comes amid ongoing scrutiny of Sheriff Nanos's handling of the investigation into the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC's Savannah Guthrie. Nancy was last seen on January 31, 2026, and was reported missing the following day. The investigation has faced criticism for a lack of leads and for Nanos's admission of early missteps, including the premature release of the crime scene.
Criticism of Sheriff Nanos
Critics, including members of the Pima County Deputies Organization, have accused Nanos of allowing personal vendettas to interfere with the investigation. Sergeant Aaron Cross stated, “It is a common belief in this agency that this case has become an ego case for Sheriff Nanos.” This sentiment reflects broader concerns about Nanos's leadership and decision-making during a critical investigation.
Official Responses and Ongoing Investigation
As of now, neither Sheriff Nanos nor the Pima County Sheriff’s Department has publicly commented on the lawsuit. The investigation into Nancy Guthrie's disappearance continues, with the FBI offering a $100,000 reward for information leading to her location. The Guthrie family has also announced a $1 million reward for tips that could assist in the case.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
While the lawsuit focuses on the alleged negligence regarding COVID-19 protocols, the investigation into Nancy Guthrie's disappearance remains unresolved, with no arrests made or suspects identified. The lack of clarity surrounding ransom notes and other leads has further complicated the case.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This put my life in jeopardy with their action, constantly,” — Christopher Michael Marx, Plaintiff
- “It is a common belief in this agency that this case has become an ego case for Sheriff Nanos,” — Sergeant Aaron Cross, Pima County Deputies Organization
The ongoing legal and investigative developments surrounding Sheriff Chris Nanos and the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie highlight significant challenges in both public safety and law enforcement accountability in Pima County.
