Alleged Kidnapping and Torture in New York City Over Bitcoin Dispute
New York City – In a shocking case that highlights the dark side of cryptocurrency, two men have been accused of kidnapping and torturing a 28-year-old Italian man in a luxury townhouse in SoHo, New York City. The incident allegedly stemmed from a dispute over the victim’s access to his Bitcoin assets.
Details of the Case
According to police, 37-year-old John Woeltz and 33-year-old William Duplessie face serious charges including kidnapping, unlawful imprisonment, and assault. NYPD Chief John Chell reported that the alleged torture lasted approximately 17 days, during which time the victim was subjected to severe physical abuse and psychological torment.
"From what we know now, this was a dispute over crypto money," Chell stated during a press conference. "They all know each other, but this was a kidnapping for roughly 17 days, where they tortured this person."
Allegations Against the Suspects
The victim, whose name has not been disclosed, arrived in New York from Italy on May 6, 2025, believing he was meeting Woeltz. Assistant District Attorney Michael Mattson explained that the suspects allegedly lured the victim under the threat of violence against his family. Upon his arrival, the victim was stripped of his belongings, including electronics and his passport, bound, and then subjected to a range of horrific abuses, including electric shocks and beatings.
Prosecutors allege that Woeltz threatened the victim’s life by hanging him over a ledge and demanded his Bitcoin password. Reports indicate that the captors used tools to inflict physical pain, cut the victim’s leg, and even forced him to smoke crack cocaine.
Escape and Investigation
The victim managed to escape on the morning of May 23, after he convinced his captors that he would reveal his Bitcoin password from his laptop. When Woeltz left to retrieve the laptop, the victim seized the opportunity to flee, running to a nearby traffic enforcement officer who helped him find safety. He was subsequently taken to a local hospital where he was reported to be in stable condition.
Upon investigation of the townhouse, police discovered gruesome evidence including a saw, drugs, and equipment commonly associated with torture. They also found disturbing photographs and ammunition, leading them to conclude that the victim had endured a significant amount of violence.
Legal Proceedings
Both Woeltz and Duplessie were denied bail at their initial court appearances on the grounds that Woeltz, a cryptocurrency entrepreneur with considerable resources, posed a flight risk. Prosecutors highlighted his ownership of a private jet and helicopter as potential means to evade justice. Duplessie’s request for bail was similarly rejected, with his attorney arguing that the facts of the case are contested.
Woeltz has been indicted by a grand jury, though the details of the indictment remain sealed until his arraignment scheduled for June 11. Meanwhile, Duplessie has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him.
Additional Arrests and Ongoing Investigation
On the same day as the initial arrests, a 24-year-old woman was taken into custody in connection with the case but has not been formally charged by the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch stated that while further suspects may exist, Woeltz and Duplessie remain the primary focus of the investigation.
As the case unfolds, both suspects are facing the possibility of a prison sentence ranging from 25 years to life if convicted of the kidnapping charge.
This case continues to draw attention, not only for its brutal nature but also as a reminder of the risks associated with the growing world of cryptocurrency and related criminal activities. Authorities urge caution as the investigation continues, and more information is expected to emerge as legal proceedings advance.
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