NYC Crypto Kidnapping and Torture Case: What We Know So Far
By Aaron Katersky and Meredith Deliso
Published: May 28, 2025, 7:30 PM
ABC News
In a shocking incident that has captivated the attention of law enforcement and the public alike, two men are accused of kidnapping and torturing a 28-year-old Italian man over a dispute regarding cryptocurrency. Authorities have confirmed that the victim was held captive for approximately 17 days in a luxurious townhouse in New York City’s SoHo neighborhood.
The Allegations
The two suspects, John Woeltz, 37, described as a "crypto king" from Kentucky, and William Duplessie, 33, were arrested in connection with the alleged torture. According to the New York Police Department (NYPD), the victim was lured to the U.S. from Italy under dire threats concerning the safety of his family.
NYPD Chief John Chell revealed, "This was a kidnapping for roughly 17 days, where they tortured this person." The reported methods of torture included forced ingestion of narcotics, electric shocks, physical assaults, and threats to the victim’s life. The situation escalated to the point where the suspects allegedly dangled the victim over a ledge in a bid to extract his Bitcoin password.
Details of the Victim’s Experience
The victim, who has not been publicly named, arrived in New York on May 6. Upon reaching Woeltz’s townhouse, he reportedly had his electronics and passport seized and was then bound and beaten. The allegations include severe instances of physical cruelty, such as a saw being used to cut his leg, and other dehumanizing acts.
On May 23, the victim managed to escape during a moment of distraction when Woeltz left to retrieve his laptop, which the victim claimed held his Bitcoin password. He fled and approached a nearby traffic enforcement officer, who promptly assisted him.
Evidence and Arrests
Law enforcement officials recovered a number of incriminating items from the townhouse during their investigation. This included a saw, crack cocaine, and evidence of the alleged torture, such as photographs depicting the victim in vulnerable situations. Additional items found in the apartment raised concerns about the severity of the situation, including body armor and night vision goggles.
Both Woeltz and Duplessie face serious charges, including kidnapping, unlawful imprisonment, and assault. They have pleaded not guilty and have been denied bail, reflecting the court’s concern over their potential flight risk. The judge noted Woeltz’s access to private aviation as a significant factor in denying bail.
Subsequent Developments
A third suspect, a 24-year-old woman, was also taken into custody but has not been charged, as the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office has opted not to prosecute her at this time. Currently, Woeltz and Duplessie are considered the primary suspects, though police have indicated the investigation could lead to additional arrests.
Both suspects could face a maximum sentence of 25 years to life in prison if convicted of kidnapping. Their attorneys have declined to comment on the specifics of the case.
As the story unfolds, the community watches closely, with many expressing shock over how a financial disagreement could escalate to such dangerous criminal behavior. The NYPD continues to investigate, reinforcing the caution surrounding cryptocurrency transactions and disputes in this evolving financial landscape.