Introduction to the Case

A Los Angeles County man was arrested after he sent “imposter” ransom messages to the family of “Today” co-host Savannah Guthrie, whose mother remains missing from her Arizona home in a suspected abduction, federal officials said Thursday.

Background on the Investigation

“To those imposters who are trying to take advantage and profit from this situation, we will investigate and ensure you are held accountable for your actions,” Heith Janke, special agent in charge of the FBI’s Phoenix division, said at a news conference. He said Thursday’s arrest was made after investigators tracked down an “imposter ransom demand,” which was unrelated to a separate ransom letter received by news outlets that officials are taking seriously.

The Emotional Plea from the Guthrie Family

Guthrie and her siblings this week addressed the suspected abductor in a tearful video, asking them to reach out directly and provide some proof of life of their mother, 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie.

Details of the Imposter’s Messages

After that emotional video was posted and publicized, authorities say Derrick Callella, of Hawthorne, sent messages to Guthrie family members. “Did you get the bitcoin were [sic] waiting on our end for the transaction,” read the message sent to at least two family members, according to the federal criminal complaint filed in Arizona.

Tracking Down the Imposter

Callella, 42, is accused of using a voice over internet protocol text and call application to surreptitiously reach out to the family, but authorities were able to link the phone number to his email address and, later, his residence, according to the complaint. According to data reviewed by authorities, Callella texted the family twice and called them at least once. The complaint said Callella later admitted to sending the two text messages.

Statement from the Department of Justice

“The Department of Justice will protect victims and families at all costs, and grief profiteers will be held accountable,” Arizona U.S. Atty. Timothy Courchaine wrote in a statement. “This case came together in under 24 hours because of the coordinated work of the FBI, local law enforcement and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California.”

Charges Against Callella

Callella has been arrested on suspicion of transmitting a demand for ransom in interstate commerce, and without disclosing his identity, utilizing a telecommunications device with the intent to abuse, threaten or harass a person. He was taken into custody Thursday in L.A. County and will appear before a federal magistrate judge in the morning, according to a spokesperson for the U.S. attorney’s office in Los Angeles.

Previous Charges Against Callella

According to federal officials, he is the same individual who was charged with unemployment fraud in October by the Los Angeles County district attorney’s office, accused along with 12 others of working for the county while also filing for — and receiving — unemployment benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic. He appeared in state court for a preliminary hearing in that case Wednesday, according to court records, the day he is accused of sending the texts to the Guthries.

Conclusion

The arrest of Derrick Callella serves as a warning to those who would seek to exploit vulnerable families during times of crisis. The swift action by law enforcement demonstrates a commitment to protecting victims and their families from such egregious acts. As the investigation into Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance continues, the community remains hopeful for her safe return and grateful for the diligence of the authorities in pursuing all leads, including those that seek to capitalize on the family’s distress.

FAQs

• Q: Who was arrested in connection with the Nancy Guthrie case?
  A: Derrick Callella, a 42-year-old man from Hawthorne, Los Angeles County, was arrested for sending "imposter" ransom messages to the Guthrie family.
• Q: What were the nature of the messages sent by Callella?
  A: Callella sent messages demanding bitcoin in exchange for the safe return of Nancy Guthrie, which were deemed by authorities as "imposter" ransom demands unrelated to the actual case.
• Q: How was Callella tracked down by the authorities?
  A: Authorities were able to link the phone number used by Callella to his email address and later to his residence, leading to his identification and arrest.
• Q: What charges is Callella facing?
  A: Callella is facing charges of transmitting a demand for ransom in interstate commerce and utilizing a telecommunications device with the intent to abuse, threaten, or harass a person.
• Q: Does Callella have any prior legal issues?
  A: Yes, Callella was previously charged with unemployment fraud in October, accused of working for the county while also filing for and receiving unemployment benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic.