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Crypto Torture Suspects Freed on Bail After Alleged Victim's Escape
1 Aug
Summary
- Two suspects accused of torturing an Italian crypto trader over his $100M Bitcoin password
- One suspect released on $1M bond, other still detained
- Alleged victim escaped and called police after weeks of captivity and abuse
In a shocking case of crypto-related crime, two men accused of torturing an Italian millionaire over his Bitcoin password have been released on bail. According to the report, John Woeltz, 37, and William Duplessie, 33, allegedly kidnapped and subjected 28-year-old crypto trader Michael Carturan to weeks of abuse in a New York City townhouse.
The pair is accused of using various forms of torture, including electric shocks, beatings, and death threats, in an attempt to force Carturan to reveal his Bitcoin password, which was reportedly worth $100 million. Prosecutors say the suspects even threatened Carturan's family in Italy during the ordeal.
Last week, a Manhattan judge granted bond for Woeltz, who was released from Rikers Island on a $1 million bond. Duplessie, a Miami resident, remains in custody. Both men have pleaded not guilty, with Woeltz's attorney arguing the alleged torture was akin to "fraternity-like hazing."
Carturan eventually managed to escape the townhouse and contact a nearby traffic officer. The suspects are now scheduled to appear in court on October 15th.
