TMZ boss: FBI ignored bitcoin ransom offer in Guthrie case

"The person keeps contacting us, keeps saying they have the information, keeps demanding the bitcoin," Levin said. "We don't know if it's real. If there's even a chance it could help find Nancy, we wanted to pursue it."

Levin said he decided to go public with the story after the FBI failed to respond to multiple attempts to discuss the ransom demand. He said he hopes the publicity will pressure the agency to take the lead.

"We're not investigators. We're a media outlet," Levin said. "We need law enforcement to tell us what to do. They didn't."

The case raises questions about how law enforcement handles ransom demands involving cryptocurrency. Bitcoin transactions are pseudonymous, making it difficult to trace the recipient without cooperation from exchanges or blockchain analysis firms. The FBI has previously used such tools in high-profile cases, including the Colonial Pipeline ransomware attack.

Levin's account also highlights the unusual position of a media outlet acting as intermediary between a potential witness and law enforcement. TMZ typically breaks celebrity news and legal scoops. This situation forced the outlet into a role closer to crisis negotiator.

"We're not equipped to handle this alone," Levin said. "We needed the FBI to step in. They didn't."

Nancy Guthrie's disappearance remains unsolved. Tucson police have not named any suspects or persons of interest. The family has offered a reward for information leading to her safe return.