Ex-FBI agent says proof of life is important in possible kidnappings like Nancy Guthrie case

PHOENIX – A retired FBI agent said that proof of life is a significant factor in potential kidnapping cases like the one involving Nancy Guthrie.

Investigators have been working on the assumption that the 84-year-old mother of “Today” host Savannah Guthrie was taken from her Tucson home against her will sometime between 9:45 p.m. Jan. 31 and just before noon the next day.

The FBI said Thursday it is taking apparent ransom notes sent to national and local media outlets seriously. However, officials said there has been no additional contact from the sender of the notes since they arrived.

“I think eventually, if it’s a legitimate kidnapping, there has to be a proof of life. There has to be some sort of connection between the kidnappers and the family, the police or online that says, ‘We have her and this is our demands,’” retired FBI agent Steve Hooper told KTAR News 92.3 FM’s The Mike Broomhead Show on Friday.

Family asks for proof of life in videos

Nancy Guthrie’s children mentioned the need for proof of life in two videos they posted online this week. The FBI said it worked with the family on crafting their messages, but it was up to the family to decide what to do in regard to ransom demands.

“We need to know without a doubt that she is alive and that you have her. We want to hear from you, and we are ready to listen. Please reach out to us,” Savannah Guthrie said in a video posted Wednesday.

“We need you to reach out and we need a way to communicate with you so we can move forward. But first we have to know that you have our mom,” Cameron Guthrie, Savannah’s brother, said in a video posted Thursday.

Heith Janke, special agent in charge of the FBI Phoenix office, said during a press conference on Thursday the ransom note sent to media outlets included a financial demand and had two deadlines, one which passed at 5 p.m. Thursday and another on Monday.

“We’re not going to go beyond that,” he said when asked what the note said would happen if the demand wasn’t met.

Hooper, an assistant professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, said he would consider it a red flag in a case like this if the deadline keeps moving.

“I think at some point they have to decide whether this is someone who’s just who’s just using this opportunity and is trying to figure out a way to get some money, but I think eventually proof of life and some more significant connection with the family or law enforcement has to be made.”

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