Federal authorities have arrested a Southern California man accused of trying to cash in on the frantic search for Nancy Guthrie — the 84-year-old mother of Today co-anchor Savannah Guthrie — by sending what investigators describe as an “imposter” ransom demand for Bitcoin.
The suspect, Derrick Callella, 42, was taken into custody Thursday (Feb. 5) in Hawthorne, California, according to a federal criminal complaint and a U.S. Justice Department announcement.
What investigators say Callella did
Authorities allege Callella sent messages to members of the Guthrie family asking about a Bitcoin transfer — language that mirrored ransom demands circulating as the case drew national attention. In the complaint, investigators say he used a VOIP/texting app to create a fake phone number, then contacted family members with a message asking whether the Bitcoin had been sent. (ABC7 Los Angeles)
According to ABC7’s reporting on the complaint, investigators traced the account used for the texts to an email associated with Callella, and he later admitted sending the messages after being advised of his rights.
Charges filed
Callella is charged via criminal complaint with transmitting a demand for ransom in interstate commerce and with anonymously using a telecommunications device with intent to abuse, threaten, or harass, federal officials said. (Department of Justice)
Importantly, authorities say this arrest is tied to an “imposter” demand and does not identify the person responsible for Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance. (ABC7 Los Angeles)
Why the arrest matters
Investigators have warned that high-profile missing-person cases can attract opportunists who try to exploit families in crisis. In this case, the FBI said it is still evaluating other messages and information connected to the disappearance, while making clear that profiting from the family’s fear could bring serious federal consequences. (Los Angeles Times)
Where the Nancy Guthrie investigation stands
Nancy Guthrie was last seen Jan. 31 in the Tucson area, and authorities have described the situation as a suspected abduction/kidnapping. Investigators have cited troubling indicators, including blood at the home and disruptions to home/security devices, while emphasizing that the main priority is locating her safely. (AP News)
A $50,000 reward remains in place for information that helps recover her or leads to an arrest connected to the disappearance, officials have said. (AP News)
