Sheriff responds to report about Savannah Guthrie’s brother-in-law

The Arizona sheriff investigating the disappearance of Savannah Guthrie’s mother has responded to reports that her brother-in-law was a focus of the investigation. 

NewsNation anchor Ashleigh Banfield, citing trusted law enforcement sources, had reported that Tommaso Cioni, who is married to Savannah Guthrie’s sister Annie Cioni, is being considered as a “possible suspect” in the case, citing trusted law enforcement sources. This report has since been widely discredited.

“While we appreciate the public’s concern, the sharing of unverified accusations or false information is irresponsible and does not assist the investigation,” Pima County Sheriff officials said in a statement.

In a statement to Newsweek, the department noted that it is “awaiting additional forensic results.”

Updated to reflect new reporting and a statement from the Pima County Sheriff’s Department.