Prosecutors in Louisiana and Mississippi have moved forward with plea negotiations in a high-profile 2024 case involving the death of 35-year-old Callie Brunett and the kidnapping of her two daughters. Court records and recent statements confirm that both defendants — Daniel Callihan, 37, and Victoria Cox, 34 — are now facing long-term prison sentences as part of ongoing legal proceedings in state and federal courts.
The case began in June 2024, when law enforcement in Louisiana launched a multistate search after Brunett and her children were reported missing. The investigation quickly expanded across state lines, ultimately leading to the arrest of Callihan and Cox in Mississippi.
Federal and State Charges Lead to Separate Plea Negotiations
Callihan, who faced both federal and state charges, has already accepted a plea agreement with federal prosecutors. The deal — which includes multiple felony counts — removes the possibility of capital punishment and ensures that he will remain in prison for the rest of his life. According to officials, the agreement was reached after months of evidence review across jurisdictions, involving both agencies in Louisiana and Mississippi.
Cox, who is being prosecuted on state charges in Mississippi, has now been offered a similar opportunity to resolve her case without a capital trial. PEOPLE reported that prosecutors extended a plea deal to her that would also eliminate the death-penalty option if accepted. She currently faces several serious counts, including capital murder, kidnapping, and related offenses.
Under Mississippi law, a capital murder charge allows for either life imprisonment or a capital sentence, depending on the outcome of trial or negotiation. A plea agreement would mean Cox’s punishment is determined without going through a full jury trial.
Overview of the 2024 Incident
According to investigative summaries released by authorities, Brunett was found deceased in Louisiana, prompting an intensive search for her daughters, aged 6 and 4. The children were later located in Mississippi after a coordinated effort involving federal agents, U.S. Marshals, and local law enforcement. Callihan was arrested at the scene, and Cox was taken into custody shortly afterward in connection with the same investigation.
While court filings reference serious harm to both children, officials have avoided releasing sensitive details publicly due to the victims’ ages. Statements from prosecutors indicate that the evidence supporting the charges comes from digital forensic material, witness interviews, and physical evidence gathered at multiple locations across state lines.
Callihan’s Admission and Sentencing Outcome
As part of his plea, Callihan provided a formal admission of responsibility for the acts leading to Brunett’s death and the subsequent kidnapping of the children. His charges include capital murder, kidnapping, and additional felony counts. With the plea deal finalized, Callihan is expected to spend the remainder of his life in federal custody, followed by additional state-level penalties if required.
Law enforcement officials have emphasized that the resolution avoids the need for extended capital litigation and provides a clear and definitive sentence.
Cox’s Trial Date and Current Status
Cox’s legal process remains ongoing. Her trial is currently scheduled for December 8, according to Mississippi officials. If she accepts the newly offered plea deal, the scheduled trial could be canceled, and sentencing would proceed directly before the court.
Prosecutors have not disclosed the specific terms of her agreement, but legal analysts note that plea deals in cases carrying potential capital sentences often mirror federal arrangements already established with co-defendants. In this case, that would likely mean a sentence of life imprisonment.
Cox has been held on state charges since her arrest. Records show she has not been charged federally, distinguishing her case from Callihan’s and keeping all proceedings within Mississippi’s jurisdiction.
A Multistate Effort and Public Response
The 2024 case drew significant public attention, both in Louisiana and Mississippi, due to the interstate search effort and the involvement of federal agencies. Community members held multiple vigils for Brunett and her children during the investigation, and local officials have continued to address concerns about safety, support for surviving family members, and coordination between states.
Law enforcement officials have repeatedly emphasized that the rapid cooperation between agencies played a crucial role in resolving the case and preventing further harm.
What Comes Next
With Callihan’s plea completed and Cox’s legal future approaching a decisive moment, both cases are expected to move toward final resolutions before the end of the year. If Cox accepts her plea, sentencing will likely take place shortly thereafter. If not, her December 8 trial date remains in place.
Authorities in both states have stated that they will continue to support Brunett’s family and ensure confidentiality for the surviving child as the legal process continues.
The next major update is expected from Mississippi courts once a decision is made regarding Cox’s plea offer.
