Man Accused of Sending Fake Ransom Texts in Nancy Guthrie Case Appears in Court

Hollywood Reporter

by Kevin Dolak

February 14, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Derrick Callella, a 42-year-old from California, appeared in court after being accused of sending fake ransom texts during the Nancy Guthrie disappearance. He allegedly sent identical messages to Savannah Guthrie’s children, Annie and Tommaso Cioni, demanding bitcoin as part of a fraudulent scheme. Charged with transmitting a ransom demand and using telecommunications for harassment, Callella faces potential trial in Arizona. Callella made a brief court appearance, where Judge Maria Aguilera imposed pre-trial restrictions, including electronic monitoring and travel limitations between specific states. He was also barred from contacting victims or witnesses. His attorney plans to waive his client’s arraignment appearance. The FBI is investigating the case alongside the U.S. Attorney’s Office. This incident highlights exploitation during a high-profile disappearance. The FBI has doubled the reward for information leading to Nancy Guthrie’s location or related arrests, emphasizing their commitment to justice. Such cases underscore ethical concerns in leveraging public interest for personal gain, resonating deeply within the entertainment and news sectors. The situation underscores how individuals might exploit tragic

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Originally published on Hollywood Reporter on 2/14/2026