Crypto Torture Suspects Plead Not Guilty in Bitcoin Extortion Case
Two men—John Woeltz and William Duplessie, both crypto investors—have pleaded not guilty to charges of kidnapping, torture, and attempted extortion for allegedly forcing an Italian man to reveal his Bitcoin private keys during a harrowing three-week ordeal in Manhattan
Details of the Alleged Crime
The 28-year-old Italian tourist, identified as Michael Valentino Teofrasto Carturan, was allegedly lured to a luxury SoHo townhouse on May 6, held captive until May 23, and subjected to brutal torture tactics aimed at extracting his Bitcoin password
Prosecutors claim Carturan endured electric shocks, beatings, chainsaw attacks, being partially set on fire with tequila, forced drug consumption, urination, threats with guns, and being dangled from heights
He escaped barefoot and bloodied, flagging down a traffic officer for help. Authorities subsequently raided the townhouse, seizing a chainsaw, firearm, crack pipe images, body armor, and Polaroids
Court Proceedings & Defense
Both Woeltz (37) and Duplessie (33) pleaded not guilty. They are held without bail, with Duplessie facing five counts including kidnapping with intent to ransom, and Woeltz indicted on kidnapping, assault, and weapons charges
Their attorneys claim Carturan was a willing participant, pointing to video evidence of him laughing, using drugs, and socializing during captivity—alleging staged deception
The judge, Justice Gregory Carro, deemed both flight risks, citing Woeltz’s assets including a private jet and helicopter
Their next hearing is scheduled for July 15
Broader Context & Implications
This chilling episode is among several violent attacks targeting crypto holders—including a December 2024 case in Pakistan and other kidnappings in Thailand—underscoring the growing risks tied to public crypto wealth
Two NYPD detectives who provided off-duty security services to the suspects are under investigation and placed on modified duty, although they’re not accused of direct involvement
Cryptocurrencies are no longer confined to digital heists—their real-world value is now triggering extortion, torture, and kidnapping, prompting investor demand for enhanced personal protection
What Matters for Crypto Enthusiasts
Visibility = danger: Public figures and wealthy crypto holders are increasingly vulnerable to violent crimes.
Personal security is essential: This case highlights the need for physical protection, not just cyber defenses.
Legal outcome could shape policy: A severe sentence—or acquittal—may influence how authorities address violent crypto-related crimes and law enforcement protocols.
Altcoiners.live Insight
An alleged Bitcoin kidnapping and torture plot in NYC has sent shockwaves through the crypto world. The accused deny all charges, but the heinous details and high-profile nature underscore a dangerous new trend: crypto wealth is making investors targets of real-world violence. The upcoming trial will be closely watched—and may shape global attitudes toward crypto safety and regulation.
Author
Surabh Yadav
