Cryptocurrency Investor Accused of Kidnapping and Torturing Italian Tourist in NYC
In a shocking case out of New York City, John Woeltz, a 37-year-old cryptocurrency investor, has been arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including kidnapping and assault, after allegedly torturing an Italian tourist over a 14-day period in his Manhattan townhouse.
Details of the Allegations
Authorities report that the victim, a 28-year-old Italian man whose identity has not been disclosed, was lured to Woeltz’s luxury apartment in the SoHo neighborhood on May 6. Upon his arrival, the victim was reportedly stripped of his passport, bound with electrical cords, and subjected to a series of horrific abuses as part of an extortion plot aimed at obtaining passwords for cryptocurrency accounts.
According to police sources, the victim endured repeated physical torment, including being tasered with his feet submerged in water, pistol-whipped, forced to ingest cocaine, and threatened with dismemberment using an electric chainsaw. Disturbing photographs showing the victim tied up and being tortured were found during the investigation, along with weapons and additional incriminating evidence.
The Victim’s Escape and Emergency Response
The ordeal came to an end when the victim managed to escape and contacted law enforcement by flagging down a traffic officer nearby. Police, alongside SWAT teams, responded rapidly to the scene. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as emergency responders descended on the townhouse, which is situated in a high-profile area of the city.
The victim received medical attention and was transported to Bellevue Hospital, where he was reported to be in stable condition following the escapade.
Arrests and Charges
Woeltz was arrested at the scene, appearing cuffed and wearing a robe when taken into custody. He faces serious charges, including two counts of second-degree assault, one count of kidnapping, and one count of unlawful imprisonment. During a brief encounter with reporters outside the precinct, Woeltz did not comment on the allegations.
Additionally, a 24-year-old woman identified as Beatrice Folchi, a resident of Manhattan, has also been arrested and charged with kidnapping and unlawful imprisonment in connection with the case.
Community Reactions
Residents in the upscale neighborhood were taken aback by the severity of the incident. One resident remarked that Woeltz “looked like a decent guy,” noting his clean appearance at the time of the arrest. The contrast between his outward demeanor and the nature of the accusations has stirred discussions within the community.
As the details continue to emerge, the case is sure to attract significant attention, especially given its ties to the high-stakes world of cryptocurrency.
The investigation is ongoing as authorities piece together the full extent of the allegations and the circumstances surrounding this harrowing incident.
For updates and further developments, stay tuned to trusted news sources.
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