Tennessee Man Arrested for Posing as Missing Woman Layla Santanello
A Tennessee man has been arrested for impersonating missing woman Layla Santanello, who vanished last year, according to police reports.
Michael David Thompson Arrested for Identity Theft
Michael David Thompson, a 21-year-old man, was formally charged on February 14, 2024, by the Sullivan County Grand Jury for identity theft, theft under $1,000, illegal possession or fraudulent use of credit or debit cards, and extortion. The charges were based on the evidence gathered during the investigation into Santanello’s disappearance.
Thompson Posed as Santanello and Sent Cash App Requests
Law enforcement officials from the Kingsport Police Department stated that Thompson posed as Santanello, sending Cash App requests to several of her relatives and friends after she was reported missing. However, they emphasized that there is currently no evidence linking Thompson to Santanello’s actual disappearance.
Thompson in Custody at Sullivan County Jail
Following his arrest on Monday, Thompson is currently in custody at the Sullivan County Jail, with his bond set at $15,000. There is no information available at this time regarding Thompson’s plea or legal representation status. Efforts to obtain more details from the Sullivan County Court are ongoing.
Layla Santanello Remains Missing Since June 2023
Layla Santanello, 20, has been missing since June 27, 2023, as reported by Times News. She was last seen around 6:15 a.m. in a field adjacent to Americourt. Anyone with information related to Santanello’s disappearance is urged to contact 423-343-9780 or 1-800-TBI-FIND.
Connect with Inside Edition Digital
For the latest updates on this story and similar incidents, visit Inside Edition Digital’s website. Stay informed about the ongoing investigation into Layla Santanello’s disappearance by following our coverage of this case.