“Sources say…”
and
“Authorities confirmed…”
The word confirmed implies that an authoritative source has verified the information.
That source should be identifiable.
In a case involving law enforcement, readers should look for statements from the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, the FBI, prosecutors, courts, or another clearly identified official institution.
If the supposed confirmation exists only in a social-media post, it should not automatically be treated as official.
What Authorities Have Actually Confirmed
Authorities have previously confirmed significant facts about Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance.
Investigators found signs of forced entry at her home, according to Associated Press reporting from February. Officials said they believed she may have been taken against her will.
Investigators also released surveillance images and appealed for information.
ABC News reported that investigators were examining evidence including DNA recovered from a glove found near the Guthrie home.
These are examples of information that can be attributed to identifiable authorities or reputable reporting.
