Second Suspect Arrested in Alleged Torture of Crypto Investor in Manhattan

A second suspect was detained on Tuesday in connection with the alleged torture of an Italian man inside a townhouse in New York City. The incident reportedly stemmed from the victim’s refusal to disclose a Bitcoin password.

William Duplessie turned himself in to a Manhattan precinct early in the morning. The New York Police Department stated that he faces multiple serious charges, including assault, first-degree kidnapping, unlawful imprisonment, and criminal possession of a firearm.

Details of the Allegations

John Woeltz, aged 37, was previously seen being handcuffed outside his SoHo residence on Friday. He appeared disheveled, wearing a robe and barefoot, shortly after the victim managed to escape and contacted the police.

Woeltz is also facing the same charges related to this disturbing case. A criminal complaint detailed how the alleged victim, a former business partner, claimed that the ordeal began on May 6 when he arrived at an address on Prince Street.

According to the complaint obtained over the weekend, Woeltz, alongside Duplessie, allegedly confiscated the victim’s electronic devices and passport. This action left the victim unable to access essential items, denying him a means to communicate with the outside world.

Coercion for Bitcoin Password

The police reported that the duo demanded the victim provide them with his Bitcoin password, with intentions to steal the cryptocurrency. The complaint highlighted that the victim endured severe beatings over the following weeks for refusing to comply.

The nature of the abuse involved extreme forms of torture. The victim described situations where he was subjected to electric shocks, physically assaulted with a firearm, and threatened with death should he not reveal his Bitcoin password. This unsettling narrative paints a vivid picture of the brutality he suffered.

In addition, the complaint outlined that Duplessie and Woeltz bound the victim’s wrists. They confined him in such a way that he could not escape, with threats of violence inflicted upon his family if he did not comply with their demands.

Police Response and Immediate Action

Following the victim’s escape, law enforcement officers swiftly responded to the scene around 10 a.m. on Friday. Eyewitnesses recounted a chaotic atmosphere as police, SWAT teams, and emergency vehicles arrived at the townhouse to handle the distressing situation.

During the operation, a 24-year-old woman was also taken into custody for her involvement in the case. However, the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office announced on Tuesday that they would not pursue charges against her at this time, citing the need for further investigation.

Legal Ramifications and Ongoing Investigation

The case surrounding these allegations has drawn significant media attention and sparked discussions about safety in the world of cryptocurrency investments. As investigators delve deeper into this harrowing situation, the implications of such criminal behavior raise concerns among investment communities.

The arrest of Duplessie marks a critical development in an already shocking story, shedding light on the potential dangers lurking within the realm of cryptocurrency. Investors should remain vigilant and aware of the risks associated with their assets.

Awareness and Prevention

In light of this incident, authorities emphasize the importance of reporting any suspicious activity as quickly as possible. This case serves as a cautionary tale about the extremities some might face over financial disputes or investments.

As the legal proceedings unfold, many are left wondering about the motivations behind such heinous acts and how they could further affect the landscape of cryptocurrency investments in the future.

Ongoing discussions emphasize the need for appropriate safeguards, both at the personal investment level and within the broader financial community. The hope is that instances of violence related to financial disputes will decrease as awareness continues to grow.

Michael Dorgan contributed to this report for Fox News Digital.