Crypto Entrepreneur Arrested for Allegedly Torturing Tourist in New York City
New York City, NY – A cryptocurrency entrepreneur, John Woeltz, 37, was arrested on Friday after a 28-year-old tourist from Italy reported being tortured in Woeltz’s luxury apartment in Manhattan for more than two weeks. The troubling allegations that surfaced have shocked the local community and spotlighted criminal activities associated with the growing cryptocurrency sector.
Arrest Details
According to police reports, the alleged victim arrived in New York City on May 6. He was reportedly lured to Woeltz’s SoHo apartment, where his passport was seized. The victim claimed that Woeltz, along with another individual who has not yet been captured, subjected him to severe physical abuse after he refused to disclose his Bitcoin password.
The ordeal came to an end early on the morning of May 23 when the tourist managed to escape and sought help from a traffic enforcement officer nearby. Authorities quickly responded and transported him to a local hospital for treatment.
Charges and Court Appearance
In the wake of the accusations, Woeltz made an initial court appearance on Saturday, where he was charged with kidnapping, assault, and unlawful imprisonment. He was ordered to be held without bail and did not enter a plea at that time.
The allegations are extraordinarily severe, describing methods of torture that included physical beatings, the administration of electric shocks, and being hung off a ledge, all aimed at coercing the victim into revealing sensitive information regarding cryptocurrency assets.
Evidence Found by Police
When police conducted a search of Woeltz’s apartment, they discovered multiple Polaroid photographs depicting the alleged torture of the victim and various items that appeared to be used in the torture process. Notably, a firearm was also recovered from the premises, further escalating the seriousness of the case.
The discovery of such evidence has led investigators to explore the full extent of Woeltz’s actions, raising concerns about the potential for organized crime linked to the cryptocurrency industry.
Community Response
The shocking nature of these allegations has prompted concern among community members and raises broader questions about the safety of tourists in New York City. As police continue their investigation, they are urging anyone with additional information about the case or about Woeltz to come forward.
Authorities have also increased patrols in the area to ensure the safety of residents and visitors alike, emphasizing the importance of addressing violent crime in the community.
As this case unfolds, many will be watching closely to see how the legal system responds to such extreme allegations and what this case may reveal about the intersection of technology, crime, and safety in urban settings.
For ongoing updates, stay tuned to trusted news sources.
Share this article:
