Manhattan Crypto Investor Allegedly Kidnaps and Tortures Italian Tourist
New York, NY – A 37-year-old cryptocurrency investor from Manhattan has been charged with kidnapping and torturing an Italian tourist, according to law enforcement officials and media reports. The suspect, identified as John Woeltz, was arraigned in New York Criminal Court on Saturday morning, facing multiple charges including kidnapping with intent to collect ransom, assault, and unlawful imprisonment.
Arrests Follow Victim’s Escape
The alleged incident unfolded in a luxury townhome located in the SoHo neighborhood of Manhattan. Woeltz was arrested along with a second suspect, 24-year-old Beatrice Folchi, after the unnamed 28-year-old victim managed to escape from the premises. The victim was promptly taken to a hospital, where he was reported to be in stable condition, having endured what police described as weeks of captivity.
Authorities reported that during the victim’s time in the SoHo home, he was subjected to physical abuse and torture, which included being bound and physically assaulted. Police found disturbing evidence during their investigation, including several Polaroid photographs documenting the victim’s torture as well as firearms.
Details of the Incident
According to police accounts, the victim traveled to New York from Italy on May 6. Shortly after arriving, Woeltz allegedly confiscated the victim’s passport and began a campaign of intimidation and violence to extract a bitcoin password. The situation escalated to the point where Woeltz reportedly hung the victim off a ledge when he refused to comply.
A criminal complaint obtained by ABC News detailed the harrowing experiences the victim endured at the hands of the suspects, which culminated in his desperate escape.
Background of the Suspect
John Woeltz, a cryptocurrency enthusiast originally from Kentucky, has been renting the SoHo property for a substantial monthly fee reported to be between $30,000 and $40,000. The high stakes of the cryptocurrency market have drawn increased scrutiny and concern over the potential for criminal activities associated with digital currencies.
Following the allegations and subsequent arrests, the case has attracted significant media attention, highlighting ongoing concerns regarding violent crime, ransom schemes, and the safety of tourists in major U.S. cities.
Ongoing Investigation
The New York Police Department is continuing its investigation into the incident. They have reached out for comments from the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, as well as Woeltz’s attorney, although no statements have been released as of now.
As authorities delve deeper into the case, the shocking incident raises questions about the intersection of digital currency, violent crime, and the safety of international visitors in urban environments.
Conclusion
This troubling case reflects not only the complexities surrounding cryptocurrencies but also the potential dangers faced by individuals in high-stakes financial environments. Both Woeltz and Folchi remain in custody as the judicial process unfolds, with further developments anticipated in the coming days.
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