John Woeltz, 37, and William Duplessie, 32, are facing serious charges after allegedly holding a 28-year-old Italian man captive for two weeks in a Manhattan townhouse. Prosecutors claim that the duo tortured the victim to obtain his Bitcoin account password. They have been charged with first-degree kidnapping, second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, and assault, but both men have pleaded not guilty to the charges.
During an arraignment in Manhattan Supreme Court on June 11, Assistant District Attorney Sarah Khan revealed to the judge that authorities had discovered previous incidents involving the torture of other victims linked to Woeltz and Duplessie.
The shocking details of the alleged abuse include binding the victim’s wrists, administering electric shocks, and using a pistol to inflict harm. Additionally, prosecutors allege that the suspects poured tequila on the victim, attempted to set him on fire, urinated on him, and even used a small chainsaw to cut him. Throughout this ordeal, the victim was reportedly not allowed to leave the townhouse without being supervised.
Despite the gravity of these allegations, Duplessie’s lawyer, Sam Talkin, contends that the victim’s claims are “entirely false.” He argues that video evidence exists showing the victim appearing “laughing and smiling” during the time he was supposedly held captive. In response, Khan emphasized that victims of abuse often do not behave in ways society expects, which can complicate how their experiences are understood.
Both accused individuals were reportedly known to the victim, as they were involved in cryptocurrency investments and business ventures together. This case highlights the potential dangers surrounding the cryptocurrency industry, where financial disputes can lead to dire consequences.
This situation is a stark reminder of the lengths some may go in a volatile financial world. However, the legal process will further clarify the truth of the matter as both sides present their evidence.