Bitcoin Millionaire Reportedly Endured Weeks of Torture in NYC Residence: Key Details Unveiled
Bitcoin Torture Case in New York City
The investigation into a harrowing case in New York City has unveiled disturbing details about the alleged kidnapping and torture of an Italian man, apparently targeted for his cryptocurrency fortune. The 28-year-old, whose identity remains undisclosed, managed a daring escape from his captors on May 23. Bloodied and shoeless, he flagged down an NYPD traffic agent in the upscale SoHo neighborhood, prompting police intervention.
Inside the SoHo townhouse where the man was reportedly held, investigators uncovered chilling evidence: a saw, crack cocaine, chicken wire, body armor, night-vision goggles, and photos of the victim with a gun to his head. This discovery paints a grim picture of what transpired within those walls.
One suspect, Woeltz-originating from Kentucky-was apprehended at the scene. With access to a private jet and helicopter, prosecutors argued that Woeltz had the means to flee if granted bail. The townhouse itself boasted eight bedrooms, underscoring the suspect’s resources.
The ordeal began on May 6 when the Italian man arrived at the townhouse under false pretenses. Prosecutors allege that he was lured to New York with promises of recovering his stolen bitcoin. Once there, he endured over two weeks of captivity as suspects pressured him for his bitcoin wallet password.
During this period, he faced unimaginable horrors: electric shocks, gun threats, and being dangled over a ledge. An AirTag tracking device was fastened around his neck as an ominous warning against escape attempts. The threats extended beyond physical harm; they also targeted his family.
The victim recounted being cut with a saw, forced to smoke crack cocaine, and subjected to degrading treatment by his captors. His escape came only after he tricked Woeltz into retrieving a laptop under the guise of accessing his bitcoin password. This ruse provided the momentary distraction needed for him to flee.
Adding another layer of complexity to this case is the involvement of detectives who have been placed on desk duty pending an internal affairs investigation. Their unauthorized off-duty work raises questions about conduct within the NYPD ranks. Notably, one detective was part of New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ security detail.
The mayor’s office expressed dismay at these developments. “Every city employee is expected to follow the law,” stated Kayla Mamelak Altus, Adams’ press secretary. “We are disturbed by these allegations.”
This case continues to unfold with many eyes watching closely as it navigates through legal channels. For more detailed coverage of this story and other news updates, visit BBC News.
