Defense attorney Jesse Showalter condemned the actions as an error based on false premises.
Showalter emphasized the trauma his clients experienced and called for the department to clear their names.
He stated, "There's no doubt at this point that it was a wrongful search and a wrongful arrest."
Pima County authorities have 60 days to respond to the claims. Sheriff Nanos maintained that factors beyond a simple tip guided their actions.
Meanwhile, testing on hair samples from Guthrie's home yielded no leads. The sheriff's department said DNA and digital evidence analysis is ongoing.
The FBI continues to investigate the disappearance as a kidnapping for ransom. Savannah Guthrie, Nancy's daughter, released a video message pleading for her mother's return.
"Our family is in agony," she said. She begged those responsible to do the right thing and help find her mother.
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Federal agents are still evaluating multiple ransom notes sent to local media.
