At least one arrest has been made in connection with an imposter ransom demand tied to the suspected kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie.
Multiple media outlets had received fake ransom notes, which they turned over to authorities. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department confirmed it is taking the tips seriously but has not released further details. The FBI warned that some individuals have attempted to exploit the situation for personal gain.
The arrest involves Derrick Callella, who is accused of sending a fraudulent ransom demand. According to the criminal complaint, Callella used a telecommunications device to transmit ransom messages across state lines, hiding his identity while targeting Nancy Guthrie’s family. The texts requested confirmation of bitcoin payment, coinciding with the family’s public plea for Nancy’s safe return.
Authorities traced the messages to Callella’s email and linked him to a residence. He admitted to sending the texts via a VOIP account and explained that he had gathered information about the family online, following media coverage to see if the family would respond. Investigators confirmed that his messages were unrelated to previous ransom threats.
Nancy Guthrie, 84, was last seen at her Tucson home on Saturday night and reported missing the next day after failing to attend a church service. Blood discovered on her front porch was matched to her through DNA testing, and authorities believe she may have been taken against her will. While her status remains unknown, officials continue to hold hope that she is still alive.
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