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Man Sentenced in Savannah Guthrie Mom's Case
1 Sep
Summary
- Man sentenced for fake ransom note in Guthrie disappearance.
- He received two concurrent five-year probation terms.
- Guthrie's mother vanished from her Tucson home in February.
Derrick Callella, 42, of Hawthorne, California, was sentenced on Monday for creating a fake ransom note while Savannah Guthrie's mother was missing. He received two concurrent five-year probation terms and was ordered to pay a $200 special assessment. Callella must report to his probation officer within 72 hours of his sentencing.
Callella pleaded guilty in July to two counts of harassment via telecommunication. He admitted to contacting Guthrie's family members on February 4, inquiring about a bitcoin transfer and acknowledging a prior ransom demand. His actions were intended to harass the family by seeking information on the ongoing investigation into the disappearance.
Nancy Guthrie, mother of 'Today' anchor Savannah Guthrie, was last seen on January 31, 2026, after a family dinner. She was reported missing on February 1, 2026, when she failed to meet a friend. Pima County investigators believe she was abducted against her will.
Despite extensive searches, DNA analysis, and alleged ransom notes, no one has been arrested in connection with Guthrie's disappearance. One note suggested she had perished and was buried in nature. Efforts to locate her presumed remains are ongoing. Savannah Guthrie has made public, impassioned pleas for her mother's return and for help in finding her.
