New York City Sees Disturbing Cryptocurrency-Related Kidnapping Case
In a shocking turn of events, a dispute over cryptocurrency has allegedly culminated in the kidnapping and torture of an Italian man in a luxurious townhouse in New York City, as outlined by police reports. Two men, identified as John Woeltz, 37, and William Duplessie, 33, now face serious charges, including kidnapping, assault, and unlawful imprisonment. NYPD Chief John Chell revealed to the media that the incident lasted approximately 17 days, during which the victim was subjected to extreme and brutal treatment. “This was a kidnapping linked to a disagreement over cryptocurrency,” Chell stated. “The individuals involved were acquainted, but what transpired was horrific.”
Victim Lured to the United States
The victim, a 28-year-old man whose identity has not been disclosed, reportedly traveled from Italy to New York on May 6, where he was welcomed into Woeltz’s expansive eight-bedroom property located in SoHo. Assistant District Attorney Michael Mattson explained that Woeltz and Duplessie allegedly deceived the victim into coming to New York with threats of violence against his family. Upon arrival, the victim was stripped of his electronic devices and passport, restrained, and endured physical abuse, including beatings and electric shocks. The criminal complaint details a particularly alarming incident where Woeltz is accused of dangling the victim over a staircase ledge while demanding access to his Bitcoin account.
Victim’s Daring Escape
On a fateful Friday morning, the victim managed to escape by seeking the assistance of a traffic enforcement officer. Authorities reported that he was promptly taken to a nearby hospital, where he was found to be in stable condition. The victim’s bid for freedom came when he convinced his captors that he would divulge his Bitcoin password, which was stored on his laptop. As Woeltz left to retrieve the laptop, the victim seized the opportunity to flee down the stairs. Following his escape, detectives discovered chilling evidence within the townhouse, including a saw, crack cocaine, and various items suggesting a planned torture scenario, such as body armor and night vision goggles.
Suspects Denied Bail
Woeltz, who is known as the “crypto king of Kentucky,” was apprehended on Friday but did not respond to media inquiries as he was led away by law enforcement. Duplessie subsequently surrendered at the NYPD’s 13th Precinct, also avoiding questions from the press. Both individuals have been charged with severe offenses, including kidnapping and unlawful possession of a firearm, to which they have pleaded not guilty, according to court documents. At their initial court hearings, both men were denied bail. Prosecutors argued for Woeltz’s continued detention without bail, citing his potential flight risk due to possessing a private jet and helicopter. Duplessie’s attorney sought home detention for his client but was denied bail, with claims of the case’s details being “hotly disputed.”
Additional Arrests and Ongoing Investigation
In a related development, a 24-year-old woman was arrested on charges of kidnapping and unlawful imprisonment. However, the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office has opted not to pursue prosecution against her at this time. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirmed that, for now, Woeltz and Duplessie are the primary suspects in this harrowing case, stating, “Currently, these two are our focus, but there could be others involved.”
