Background on the Arrest of Carlos Palazuelos
The attorney for Carlos Palazuelos, who was detained during the investigation into Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance, seeks access to the sealed evidence that led to his arrest and home search. Palazuelos, 36, was held by Pima County Sheriff’s deputies for about eight hours in February before being released without charge. Guthrie, the mother of ‘Today’ co-host Savannah Guthrie, disappeared at the age of 84. The circumstances behind Palazuelos’ detainment remain unclear six months later.
Attorney Jesse Showalter demands the affidavit used to obtain the search warrant, emphasizing the need to understand the basis for targeting Palazuelos. Showalter stated, “I want to see the search warrant affidavit… I want to read how it came to pass that they went after Carlos.” Despite the passage of time, the warrant remains sealed, with no indication of when it might become public.
Defense of the Investigation by Pima County Sheriff
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos defended the investigation, stating evidence was presented to a judge to justify the warrant’s execution. Nanos mentioned, “We had information that made us believe that there’s a potential that Nancy’s there or that the bad guy’s there.” However, he declined to share the specific evidence.
Legal Action and Claims Against Pima County
Palazuelos and his family members have filed a notice of claim seeking a total of $3.25 million from Pima County authorities for wrongful arrest and search. The claim mentions Palazuelos being arrested at gunpoint and held without probable cause. Showalter highlighted the county’s obligation to respond within 60 days from July 27, after which legal proceedings may begin.
The Sheriff’s Department, when approached, declined to comment on the ongoing litigation.
Questionable Basis for Palazuelos’ Arrest
Showalter questioned the basis of the investigation, clarifying there’s no evidence placing Palazuelos near Guthrie’s home. “We don’t have any reason to believe that Carlos was anywhere near that area,” Showalter said. He speculated that errors in AI software or license-plate cameras could have wrongly implicated Palazuelos. No public evidence currently supports this claim.
Details from the Search of Palazuelos’ Home
The search of Palazuelos’ family home involved holding his brother-in-law, Daniel Maddox, at gunpoint. Showalter claims the incident led to property damage and emotional harm. “None of it was necessary,” he remarked.
Efforts to Clear Palazuelos’ Name
Showalter has pressed the Sheriff’s Department to acknowledge a mistake in targeting Palazuelos. Despite requests, Sheriff Nanos maintains that being released doesn’t eliminate suspicion. “From what we have in front of us…you can eliminate them,” said Nanos, regarding the evidence. This stance has frustrated Showalter, who asserts the investigation lacks viable leads.
Nancy Guthrie’s Disappearance
Nancy Guthrie vanished from her Tucson home on February 1, 2026. Despite extensive search efforts by local and federal agencies, including examination of surveillance footage and digital evidence, Guthrie remains missing. Savannah Guthrie has been vocal in urging the public for any information regarding her mother’s case.
Released Ransom Notes
Investigators released ransom notes left at the scene, seeking public assistance in identifying any recognizable features in the handwriting. While these notes hint at a demand for money, the connection to Guthrie’s disappearance remains unknown.
Lack of Charged Suspects
No one has been publicly charged, and the investigation into potential suspects like Palazuelos continues. Other individuals, including Guthrie’s family members, have also received scrutiny but have not been accused.