Crypto Investor Charged in Alleged Kidnapping and Torture in Manhattan
Manhattan, NY — A 37-year-old cryptocurrency investor, John Woeltz, has been charged with kidnapping and torturing an Italian man in a shocking case that has drawn attention due to the horrific details surrounding the allegations. Woeltz appeared in a Manhattan criminal court on Saturday, where he was arraigned on multiple felony counts, including kidnapping with intent to collect ransom.
The intense situation reportedly began when the victim, a 28-year-old man, arrived in the United States on May 6. Authorities say that within days of his arrival, he was kidnapped from the upscale SoHo neighborhood of Manhattan, where Woeltz had been renting a lavish apartment at approximately $30,000 a month.
Allegations of Torture
According to law enforcement officials, Woeltz and two unidentified accomplices allegedly held the victim captive for several weeks, attempting to extract cryptocurrency passwords under extreme duress. Reports indicate that the victim was subjected to severe physical abuse, which included beatings, electrical shocks, and threats to his life. Disturbing accounts suggest Woeltz allegedly dangled the victim from the building’s height, brandished a firearm, and inflicted serious injuries using a saw.
The victim managed to escape on Friday, reportedly fleeing the residence to seek help from police. Upon their arrival, officers discovered horrifying evidence of the alleged torture, including Polaroid photographs documenting the victim’s suffering throughout his captivity.
Arrest and Legal Proceedings
Woeltz was arrested on the same day the victim escaped, and he has since retained legal representation without making any statements to the police. During his arraignment, he pleaded not guilty to the charges against him. Judge Eric Schumacher ordered Woeltz to be held without bail as the case unfolds.
In addition to Woeltz, a 24-year-old woman was also arrested on Friday in connection with the incident. However, details regarding her charges remain unclear, and she was seen walking freely in New York shortly after her arrest, further complicating the case.
Ongoing Investigation
As the investigation continues, many aspects of this case remain uncertain, including the nature of the relationship between Woeltz and the victim. Woeltz is scheduled for a follow-up court appearance on Wednesday, as officials work to uncover further details about the incident.
The shocking nature of this case has brought to light the potential dangers associated with the cryptocurrency realm, where scams and illicit activities have become increasingly prevalent. As authorities continue to investigate, more information may emerge regarding the motivations behind this particularly brutal crime.
The local and national communities are awaiting further developments in the case as it progresses through the judicial system.
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