Crypto Investor Charged with Kidnapping and Torture: A Chilling Tale from Manhattan

The Greek Courier

In a shocking twist to the world of cryptocurrency, 37-year-old investor John Woeltz faces grave charges after allegedly kidnapping and torturing a man for weeks in a luxurious Manhattan townhouse. This sinister plot, driven by a desperate quest for Bitcoin access, has left New York City reeling.

A Harrowing Escape

On Friday morning, the victim, a 28-year-old Italian, made a daring escape from the upscale residence on Prince Street. With sheer determination, he sprinted towards a nearby traffic agent, revealing the horrors he had endured. Authorities quickly arrested Woeltz, who was arraigned the following day on charges of assault, kidnapping, and unlawful imprisonment, among others.

The Dark Underbelly of Crypto

Woeltz, who had been renting the lavish eight-bedroom home for a staggering $30,000 a month, allegedly lured the victim under false pretenses. Upon arrival in New York City on May 6, the victim found himself ensnared in a nightmare. Woeltz and an unidentified accomplice reportedly confiscated his electronic devices and passport, demanding access to his Bitcoin account.

When the victim resisted, the two men unleashed a torrent of violence, beating him, using electric shocks, and even threatening his life by suspending him over a ledge. Their chilling threats included promises of violence against the victim's family if he did not comply.

A Crime Scene Unveiled

Upon police arrival, investigators discovered harrowing evidence within the townhouse, including Polaroid photographs of the victim bound and tortured. A firearm and various implements of torture were also recovered, painting a grim picture of the ordeal.

Two butlers employed at the residence were present and have since agreed to cooperate with law enforcement, adding further intrigue to this disturbing case.

Folchi allegedly worked as an assistant to John Woeltz (pictured) in the twisted imprisonment and torture of the Italian man, according to police sources.

A Wider Context

This incident comes amid a disturbing trend in the cryptocurrency world, where high-profile executives have increasingly become targets of kidnapping and violence for ransom. The recent string of shocking cases, including a couple in New Jersey who imprisoned a young girl for seven years, raises alarm about the safety of individuals in high-stakes financial realms. In April, a 32-year-old man who had been held captive in a room by his father and stepmother escaped after setting fire to their home.

As the investigation unfolds, the chilling narrative of John Woeltz serves as a stark reminder of the dark side of the crypto boom and the lengths individuals will go to in pursuit of wealth.