Second Crypto Investor Arrested in Bitcoin Kidnapping and Torture Case
Manhattan, NY – In a shocking development in a high-profile kidnapping case, cryptocurrency investor William Duplessie turned himself in to the New York Police Department (NYPD) on Tuesday, May 27, 2025. Duplessie is accused of participating in the brutal kidnapping and torture of a man seeking access to his bitcoin fortune. This marks Duplessie’s entry into custody as the second individual arrested in connection to the case.
Details of the Allegations
The victim, identified as Michael Valentino Teofrasto Carturan, reportedly endured horrific treatment for approximately three weeks at a luxury townhouse located in Manhattan’s Nolita neighborhood. According to NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, Duplessie is charged alongside his associate, John Woeltz, who was arrested last week.
Tisch confirmed Duplessie’s surrender during an appearance on Fox 5 New York, stating, “Mr. Duplessie is in custody as of this morning at 7:45. He turned himself in at our 13th Precinct.” Woeltz, aged 37, faces multiple serious charges including kidnapping, assault, unlawful imprisonment, and possession of a firearm. Prosecutors allege that Woeltz stole Carturan’s personal items, including electronic devices and a passport, which were reportedly linked to his cryptocurrency wallet.
A Gruesome Ordeal
Court documents outlined a harrowing account of the torture endured by Carturan. He was allegedly bound, electrically shocked, and threatened with a gun by Woeltz and Duplessie. Prosecutors revealed that the men even dangled Carturan over a flight of stairs inside the upscale townhouse, demanding access to his cryptocurrency assets. They reportedly threatened to kill both Carturan and his family if he resisted their demands.
In a recent turn of events, Beatrice Folchi, Woeltz’s assistant, was also arrested but has since been released without further prosecution, as confirmed by the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office.
Current Status and Ongoing Investigation
As of now, Woeltz and Duplessie are the only suspects identified by authorities, although Commissioner Tisch acknowledged the possibility of additional individuals being implicated in the investigation. She stated, “So far, it’s those two that we’re looking at; there may be others.” Duplessie is expected to face charges similar to those of Woeltz, including kidnapping and false imprisonment.
Duplessie’s appearance at the precinct garnered media attention, where he was seen handcuffed and dressed in a white polo shirt and black pants. Reports suggest Duplessie returned from a trip to the Hamptons over the long holiday weekend prior to turning himself in, but Tisch clarified that there is “no indication” he spent Memorial Day there.
The Young Millionaires’ Fallout
Woeltz, hailing from Paducah, Kentucky, is reported to have a net worth exceeding $100 million and was previously connected to Carturan through a cryptocurrency hedge fund. Their relationship soured reportedly due to financial disputes, leading to the violent confrontation.
The chilling nature of this case highlights the dangers associated with the ever-expanding world of cryptocurrency. As the investigation continues, authorities are likely to delve deeper into the events leading up to the kidnapping and examine the broader implications within the monetary and tech landscape.
Woeltz is scheduled to appear in court again on Wednesday, while Duplessie’s legal proceedings are anticipated to unfold in the coming weeks. The case has drawn significant media attention and raises questions about security in the volatile cryptocurrency arena.
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