Second Suspect Charged in NYC ‘Crypto King’ Townhouse Torture Case
New York City — May 27, 2025: A second man has been charged in connection with the brutal kidnapping and torture of an Italian man held captive for over two weeks in a luxury townhouse in Manhattan’s Nolita neighborhood. William Duplessie, 33, has been charged with first-degree kidnapping, unlawful imprisonment, second-degree assault, and criminal possession of a weapon, according to the New York Police Department (NYPD).
Duplessie surrendered to authorities earlier on Tuesday, accompanied by his attorneys, though they declined to comment on the case. His exact role in the alleged crimes has not been fully clarified, but law enforcement officials have revealed that he was a business partner of John Woeltz, the primary suspect, who is known as the “crypto king of Kentucky.” Woeltz, 37, has already been arrested and faces multiple serious charges, including kidnapping, unlawful imprisonment, and assault.
Victim’s Harrowing Experience
The victim, a 28-year-old Italian citizen whose identity has not been disclosed, was reportedly a business associate of both Duplessie and Woeltz. Investigators believe that their relationship turned sour when the victim arrived in New York City on May 6. Upon his arrival, he was allegedly kidnapped and taken to the upscale townhouse on Prince Street.
Once inside, according to police, the victim’s passport and electronic devices were confiscated, and his captors demanded access to his Bitcoin wallet. When he refused, the situation escalated dramatically. The victim endured a horrific ordeal, during which he was bound, pistol-whipped, threatened with a gun, and suffered other violent acts, including a chainsaw being used on his leg. His captors reportedly even dangled him off the edge of the building and made threats against his family.
After enduring 17 days of torture, the victim managed to escape on Friday, running down Spring Street in a disheveled state before flagging down a police officer for help. Footage obtained by NBC New York captured his frantic plea for assistance, revealing visible injuries including cuts, bruises, and ligature marks on his wrists.
Investigation and Arrests
Following Woeltz’s arrest, investigators discovered a wealth of evidence at the townhouse, including disturbing photographs of the victim being tortured and several items associated with the alleged torture episodes. Law enforcement officials reported finding a firearm believed to have been used during the incidents.
Sources indicate that Woeltz, who is presumed to have a significant fortune estimated around $100 million, had been renting the townhouse for approximately $30,000 per month. Described as a lavish six-story residence equipped with an elevator, the property featured a party atmosphere with loud music and alcohol frequently on display, though neighbors were reportedly oblivious to the horrific events taking place inside.
History of Violence
Before the recent violent kidnapping, there were indications that Woeltz and Duplessie had previously verbally and physically intimidated the victim, though the aggression had not reached the extreme level exhibited in this case. Descriptions of their interactions suggest a chaotic and tense relationship among the three men, reminiscent of wild, reckless behavior associated with Wall Street excess.
Currently, Woeltz remains in custody and has been ordered held without bail. His legal representation has refrained from commenting publicly since his arraignment.
As the investigation continues, law enforcement authorities urge anyone with additional information related to this case to come forward.
For updates on this developing story, stay tuned.
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