California Man Pleads Guilty to Sending Fake Ransom Demand in Nancy Guthrie Case
A man from California has admitted guilt in sending a fraudulent ransom note related to Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of Savannah Guthrie, a co-host for Today, as reported by U.S. prosecutors.
Derrick Cajera, aged 42, pleaded guilty in federal court in Tucson to two counts of harassment through communication devices. According to a statement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona, this deal with prosecutors avoids imprisonment and instead places him on five years of probation. This conviction marks the sole legal conclusive action regarding the ongoing mystery surrounding Guthrie, who has been missing for over five months. Sentencing is set for September 10th, where he faces a potential penalty of up to two years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The FBI reported that Cajera sent a message to Guthrie’s family on February 4. He has acknowledged awareness that a ransom demand was already filed against them, as per a documented statement from the U.S. attorney. Cajera revealed that his motivation was to torment the family further concerning the situation, which, frankly, adds a layer of cruelty to an already tragic case.
According to court documents reviewed by NewsNation, the message included a question regarding Bitcoin, and it was immediately followed by a brief phone call made shortly after the note was sent.
The message reached Guthrie’s daughter Annie and her husband Tommaso Cioni right after the family had shared a video requesting proof of her survival. Reports indicate that Cajera had failed a recent drug test, and in open court, he admitted to using drugs just days before.
Nancy Guthrie, described as frail and in poor mobility, was last seen at her home near Tucson on January 31, and her family reported her missing on February 1. Investigators discovered her belongings, including her purse and medication, were left behind, and DNA tests confirmed that blood found in her purse matched hers. There have been no leads or suspects identified in her disappearance.
The FBI’s Phoenix office stated that they had received multiple ransom notes but dismissed some as hoaxes. They continued to treat the remaining notes with seriousness, seeing the case as a potential kidnapping for ransom while local authorities are handling the investigation.
U.S. Attorney Timothy Corchaine declared a commitment to protect victims and their families, ensuring that those who seek to exploit their suffering would be held accountable. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos also emphasized the gravity with which the FBI approaches such hoaxes, warning of potential arrests for those involved in fraudulent acts.
Savannah Guthrie has made public pleas for her mother’s safe return, expressing that their family continues to suffer greatly from the ongoing situation.
