Crypto Investor Kidnapped Tortured for Bitcoin Keys in Manhattan

Two men, William Duplessie, 33, and John Woeltz, 37, have pleaded not guilty in a case involving the kidnapping and torture of a 28-year-old Italian cryptocurrency investor in Manhattan. The victim was held captive in a luxury townhouse in the SoHo neighborhood for over two weeks, during which time he was subjected to severe physical and psychological abuse. The alleged perpetrators are accused of forcing the victim to take drugs, dangling him from a ledge, urinating on him, and electrocuting him in an effort to obtain the private keys to his bitcoin. The victim managed to escape last Friday, seeking help from a traffic officer after grabbing his laptop and leaving the townhouse.

Duplessie and Woeltz face multiple charges, including kidnapping, assault, unlawful imprisonment, and criminal possession of a firearm. Duplessie entered a not-guilty plea to five different charges, while Woeltz pleaded not guilty to four charges. A third individual, Beatrice Folchi, 24, was also arrested but her prosecution is being deferred. The victim's identity has not been publicly disclosed.

The investigation into the case has expanded to include the New York Police Department, with two officers, including a detective assigned to Mayor Eric Adams' protection detail, being placed on modified duty. The officers are alleged to have worked for both Duplessie and Woeltz in their off-duty hours, although they are not believed to be part of the kidnapping. A spokesperson for the NYPD confirmed that the matter is under internal review, while a spokesperson for the mayor's office stated that the officers were placed on modified duty as soon as the allegations came to their attention.

The case has raised broader questions about the intersection of cryptocurrency and criminal activity. While the crypto world has long been associated with financial innovation and decentralization, it has also been a breeding ground for illicit activities, including money laundering, fraud, and extortion. Law enforcement agencies are increasingly focusing on these issues, employing advanced investigative techniques and technologies to track and disrupt criminal networks.

As the investigation continues, prosecutors are expected to present additional evidence and witnesses to support their case. The defense, meanwhile, will likely argue that the prosecution's case is based on circumstantial evidence and that the suspects have been unfairly targeted. The outcome of the trial will have significant implications for both the individuals involved and the broader crypto community, as it could set a precedent for how such cases are handled in the future.

The case serves as a stark reminder of the darker side of the crypto world and the need for vigilance and regulation to prevent such heinous crimes from occurring. As the legal proceedings unfold, the public will be closely watching to see how justice is served in this complex and disturbing matter. The victim, who has not been publicly named, is reported to have suffered severe injuries and trauma as a result of the ordeal. Medical professionals have been providing ongoing care and support to aid in their recovery. The victim's family and friends have expressed shock and outrage over the incident, calling for justice and accountability.