News Nation host Ashley Banfield is standing by her claim that Nancy Guthrie’s son-in-law, Tommaso Cioni, is an alleged “prime suspect” in the 84-year-old’s disappearance. However, officials did not name a suspect in the case and denied any possible link between the alleged kidnapper or Sioni.
Ashley Banfield reiterates her claim that Tommaso Cioni is a ‘prime suspect’ in the Nancy Guthrie case. (Ashley Banfield x Drop Dead Serious/YouTube; Facebook)Banfield first reported the bombshell on his Drop Dead Serious podcast, saying a source told him authorities had impounded a car belonging to Nancy’s daughter Annie Guthrie, who is the sister of Today co-host Savannah Guthrie. The source suggested a possible connection between the car and Annie’s husband Seoni, who law enforcement may consider a “prime suspect” in the investigation.
At the time, the former Banfield anchor commented, “It’s just musings and not evidence,” while stressing that it’s common for families to investigate such cases.
Also read: Is Nancy Guthrie Richer Than Daughter Savannah Guthrie? A comparison of their net worth as the search continues
Ashley Banfield defends her reporting on Tommaso CioniDuring a conversation with Mediaite founder Dan Abrams on his SiriusXM program on Thursday, February 12, Banfield defended his reporting, although the Pima County Sheriff’s Department challenged his statement.
In a statement, the sheriff’s office said, “At this time, investigators have not identified a suspect or person of interest in this case. While we appreciate the public’s concern, sharing unverified allegations or false information is irresponsible and does not assist the investigation.”
After Abrams asked Banfield about any updates to his report on Cione, the veteran journalist said, “I can tell you that my source stands by that report every day. And that’s been the thinking since the day after Ms. Guthrie disappeared.” Mediaite reported.
Ashley Banfield draws parallels between her reporting and ongoing investigationsBanfield insisted that several aspects of his earlier report have now been verified, including that Annie’s car was “towed and in evidence” and that “the cameras were broken.”
He cited a report by Fox News Digital’s Michael Ruiz, who indicated that small pieces of glass were discovered under cameras in the front entryway of Nancy’s residence in Tucson, Arizona.
Banfield said he confirmed the man in question, who was captured on doorbell camera footage wearing a ski mask and gloves, broke the camera after failing to detach it from its mount.
Banfield stressed that his sources still believe Savannah’s sister-in-law could be a possible prime suspect. “Nothing has changed. Nothing has changed. But I will say this: The day after I made that report, my source said, ‘Things got really tight,'” he added.
