Lawyers representing two Arizona men and the mother of one have filed a notice of claim against the Pima County sheriff and a detective. This notice, a step before a potential lawsuit, targets Sheriff Chris Nanos and a detective, alleging wrongful arrest and property damage.
The notice involves Carlos Palazuelos, who was detained on February 10 for questioning and released without charges during the investigation into the kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie. On the same day, Daniel Maddox was handcuffed and held at his home for several hours. The claim states that Palazuelos was arrested at gunpoint without probable cause, held publicly for seven to eight hours, and his home was searched extensively.
The notice, filed and reported by KVOA, emphasizes that Palazuelos is innocent and faced physical, emotional, and reputational harm. It accuses Sheriff Nanos of social media posts implying Palazuelos was a suspect, damaging his reputation.
Daniel Maddox’s detention in his home led to significant physical, mental, and emotional distress. Men in military gear reportedly aimed guns at him, demanding he lie down in his hallway. The home belongs to Maddox’s mother, Josefina Maddox, and is also mentioned in the claim.
There is no immediate response from the sheriff’s department or county government regarding the notice. The lawyers propose settling claims for Palazuelos at $2.5 million, Daniel Maddox for $500,000, and Josefina Maddox for $250,000.
Nancy Guthrie, aged 84, went missing near Tucson on February 1. The FBI classifies her case as a kidnapping for ransom. Sheriff Nanos stated the case remains active with ongoing DNA and digital evidence investigation.
Savannah Guthrie, Nancy’s daughter and “TODAY” co-anchor, released a video pleading for information about her mother’s disappearance. She appealed to those involved, urging them to assist in finding Nancy.