California Resident Convicted In Nancy Guthrie Hoax Case

A California man has pleaded guilty to federal harassment charges for sending fake ransom messages while posing as the kidnapper of Nancy Guthrie, the missing 84-year-old mother of "Today" show co-host Savannah Guthrie.

Derrick Callella, 42, admitted to two counts of harassment by telecommunications device in U.S. District Court, becoming the only person convicted so far in connection with the high-profile case.

Under a plea agreement, he is expected to receive five years of probation rather than a prison sentence, although the charges carry a maximum penalty of two years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for September 10.

Authorities found her wallet, cellphone, hearing aid and medication left behind at her home, while DNA testing confirmed blood found on the front porch belonged to her.

The investigation into Nancy Guthrie's disappearance remains active as authorities continue searching for answers about her fate.

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California man admits sending fake ransom notes in Nancy Guthrie abduction https://t.co/PmfUCQS5sd https://t.co/PmfUCQS5sd

— Reuters (@Reuters) July 3, 2026

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Investigators Look For DNA Match, Claim The Search For Nancy Guthrie Is ‘Not Cold’

By Virginia Grace McKinnon, The Daily Signal | February 18, 2026 Eighteen days into the search for Nancy Guthrie, and hundreds of investigators are pursuing leads based off of tens of thousands of tips and are adamant that the case has not gone cold. “As long as we have the ability

tippinsightsTIPP Staff