Second Suspect Arrested in SoHo Torture Case Involving Alleged Kidnapping and Abuse
New York City, NY — May 27, 2025
Authorities have arrested a second suspect in connection with the alleged kidnapping and torture of an Italian man in a luxury SoHo apartment. William Duplessie, who surrendered to police on Tuesday, is expected to face several charges, including kidnapping, assault, and unlawful imprisonment.
Details of the Allegations
Duplessie’s arrest follows that of his co-defendant, John Woeltz, a known crypto entrepreneur. Police report that both individuals are accused of luring the 28-year-old victim to New York City from Italy under the threat of violence against his family. The victim, who arrived in the United States on May 6, claimed that he was held captive in Woeltz’s eight-bedroom townhouse for over two weeks, during which he endured horrific abuse.
Assistant District Attorney Michael Mattson detailed some of the abuse suffered by the victim. After arriving at Woeltz’s residence, the victim was stripped of his electronics and passport. He was subsequently bound and subjected to beatings, electric shocks, and physical threats. Notably, Woeltz reportedly dangled the victim over a flight of stairs, threatening to kill him if he refused to reveal his Bitcoin password.
Escalation of Violence
The victim’s ordeal included severe physical harm; prosecutors stated that Woeltz and Duplessie used a saw to inflict a cut on his leg. In addition, the victim was reportedly urinated on, forced to smoke crack cocaine, and subjected to further beatings. The alleged perpetrators forced the victim to consume drugs by holding him down and using a pipe.
The victim managed to escape his harrowing situation by deceiving his captors into believing he would provide them with his Bitcoin password. He fled the scene when Woeltz left the apartment to retrieve the victim’s laptop.
Evidence and Recovery
Upon gaining his freedom, the victim was able to report the abuse to the authorities, leading to subsequent arrests. Law enforcement officials searching Woeltz’s townhouse found disturbing evidence, including a saw, crack cocaine, and various items suggestive of torture, such as chicken wire and photographs depicting the victim in compromising positions involving firearms and drugs. Blood stains were also discovered in various locations within the residence.
A firearm was recovered during the police investigation, further compounding the charges against both suspects.
Legal Proceedings
Following his arrest, Woeltz was held without bail and did not enter a plea during his initial court appearance. Prosecutors argued for his detention, citing his connections and ability to flee using private air transportation available to him. Woeltz is scheduled to appear in court again on Wednesday.
As for Duplessie, he remained silent as he was escorted from the precinct, and his attorney declined to comment on the case when approached by reporters.
The unfolding events surrounding this disturbing case have raised significant public concern regarding the safety and well-being of individuals traveling to New York City. Both suspects are now facing serious legal consequences as the investigation continues.
Related Topics: Cryptocurrency, Kidnapping, New York City Crime, Torture Case
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