California Man Arrested for Bitcoin Ransom Demand in Guthrie Case
A Torrance resident has been apprehended following a Bitcoin ransom demand related to the case of Nancy Guthrie, who has recently gone missing. Derrick Callella was taken into custody in Hawthorne as part of a federal investigation initiated by the Department of Justice.
Background on Nancy Guthrie’s Disappearance
Nancy Guthrie, mother of TODAY show host Savannah Guthrie, was reported missing after allegedly being abducted from her home in Arizona early on a Sunday morning. As the investigation continues, authorities have not yet named any suspects or persons of interest.
Details of the Ransom Demand
According to the federal complaint, Callella communicated via text with Nancy’s daughter and son-in-law, inquiring about a Bitcoin transaction. This occurred two days after a local media outlet received a ransom demand that included a Bitcoin wallet address for the transaction.
These messages were sent shortly after Nancy’s children published a video appealing to the kidnappers. Callella utilized a messaging application to mask his phone number, and subsequent tracking linked the account to an email address associated with him.
Charges Against Derrick Callella
Callella is charged with transmitting a ransom demand and using telecommunications to abuse, threaten, or harass individuals. During his questioning, he confessed to sending the text messages to test if the family would react.
Community Reaction
The local community expressed shock upon hearing about Callella’s arrest. Neighbors described him as a reclusive figure, with one neighbor commenting on his generally friendly demeanor.
FBI Warning
Following Callella’s arrest, FBI Special Agent Heith Janke issued a stern warning to individuals attempting to exploit the situation for financial gain. He emphasized that any ransom-related decisions ultimately rest with the victim’s family.
Guthrie Family’s Ongoing Plea
Simultaneously, Nancy’s son, Camron Guthrie, made a heartfelt request in a video message urging for credible proof of life regarding his mother. He stated, “Whoever is out there holding our mother, we want to hear from you.” This message underscores the family’s desperation for contact and assurance of Nancy’s well-being.
Timeline of Nancy Guthrie’s Disappearance
Federal agents have provided a detailed timeline surrounding Nancy’s last known moments:
- Saturday evening: Dinner and games at daughter Annie’s home.
- Just before 10 p.m.: Family members drop her off at her home.
- 1:48 a.m.: Disconnection of her doorbell camera.
- 2:12 a.m.: A possible intruder is detected by a Google Nest device.
- 2:28 a.m.: Disconnection of Guthrie’s pacemaker app from her phone.
- Evidence: Investigators found drops of blood at the front door.
As the search for Nancy continues, Janke urged anyone involved to consider the critical nature of the situation, highlighting her advanced age and need for essential medication.
