Second Suspect Indicted in Manhattan Crypto Kidnapping and Torture Case

William Duplessie, 32, has been indicted in the kidnapping and torture of an Italian man for his Bitcoin. This follows the arrest of 37-year-old John Woeltz. The victim endured 17 days of horrific treatment before managing to escape. Investigations now extend to police detectives linked to the scene.

In a shocking development, a second suspect has been indicted in connection with the kidnapping and torture of an Italian man over Bitcoin. The indictment against 32-year-old William Duplessie was handed down by a Manhattan grand jury on Friday, following a brief court appearance. His arraignment is set for June 11, while the details of the indictment remain sealed for now.

Duplessie faces a slew of serious charges including kidnapping, assault, unlawful imprisonment, and criminal possession of a weapon. Notably, his attorney declined to comment, leaving many questions unanswered about the situation. Prosecutors say that Duplessie and his alleged accomplice, 37-year-old John Woeltz, targeted their victim under gruesome circumstances. They reportedly lured the man, a 28-year-old Italian national whose identity has not been disclosed, to a luxurious townhouse in Soho, threatening harm to his family.

Once in captivity, the victim endured a harrowing 17-day ordeal filled with torment. It’s reported that Duplessie and Woeltz employed electrical wires to inflict pain, forced the man to smoke from a crack pipe, and at one terrifying moment dangled him precariously from a staircase five floors high. In a desperate move, the victim finally agreed to provide his computer password, which allowed him a window to escape while his captors were distracted.

At his court appearance, Duplessie wore a prison jumpsuit and was escorted in handcuffs, hardly acknowledging the proceedings. A judge noted that a protective order remains in place, though specifics about that order were not disclosed. Both Duplessie and Woeltz continue to await their fate behind bars.

Adding to the complexity of the case, New York City police are investigating two detectives who provided security at the townhouse where these crimes allegedly took place. These officers have been placed on modified leave during the review. Their union’s lawyer claims there’s no evidence suggesting the officers were aware of any wrongdoing, but the inquiry is ongoing.

The indictment of William Duplessie marks a troubling escalation in a bizarre case of kidnapping and torture tied to the cryptocurrency world. The horrific actions of both suspects have captured attention, leaving many to wonder about the lengths individuals might go for digital currency. As investigations continue, the involvement of police officers in the case adds another layer of intrigue and concern, with many eyes watching how it will unfold.

Original Source: apnews.com