A California man has pleaded guilty to sending fake ransom notes related to the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the mother of a prominent TV host. Derrick Callella, 42, admitted to two counts of harassment using a telecommunication device, after calling and sending text messages to the Guthrie family in February. In his correspondence, he asked about a bitcoin transfer, knowing that an earlier ransom demand had been made.
Callella's actions were meant to harass the family by seeking information about the investigation into Nancy's disappearance. He faces a maximum penalty of two years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both, and one year of supervised release. The news comes after investigators revealed that several fake ransom demands had been received, but some may potentially be legitimate and are still being investigated.
Nancy Guthrie, 84, was last seen on January 31 after spending time with her family and being dropped off at her residence in Arizona. Her disappearance has sparked a widespread search, with her children, including a prominent TV host, making public pleas for information. The family has offered to pay a ransom for her return, and investigators have been working to verify the authenticity of various ransom notes and communications.
The investigation has been complicated by the receipt of fake ransom demands, which have been deemed a hindrance to the search efforts. Authorities have expressed frustration with individuals who make false claims or send fake ransom notes, which can distract from the actual investigation and cause unnecessary distress to the family. The search for Nancy Guthrie continues, with investigators working to follow up on legitimate leads and bring her home safely.
The Guthrie family, including her TV host daughter, has been vocal about their desire for information and their willingness to cooperate with the investigation. They have urged anyone with knowledge about Nancy's disappearance to come forward and assist the authorities in their search. As the investigation continues, the family remains hopeful that they will soon be reunited with their loved one.
