A second individual has been taken into custody following the brutal kidnapping and torture of an Italian man in Manhattan—an incident authorities say was driven by a cryptocurrency heist. William Duplessie, 33, of Miami, surrendered to police on May 27, just days after the arrest of well-known crypto investor John Woeltz.
Charges Filed Against Alleged Crypto Conspirators
Both Duplessie and Woeltz now face multiple felony charges, including assault, kidnapping, unlawful imprisonment, and firearm possession. Duplessie is listed as the co-founder of the Swiss-based Pangaea Digital Asset Fund, which focuses on salvaging troubled blockchain ventures.
Authorities say the two were business associates, though the depth and nature of their partnership remains vague.
Shocking Ordeal: Victim Tortured Over Bitcoin Access
Police reports suggest the pair lured a 28-year-old Italian man to a luxury apartment in Nolita, where he was bound, electrocuted, cut, and threatened with a firearm in an attempt to force him to reveal access to his Bitcoin.
After disclosing his password, the victim seized a narrow opportunity to escape and flagged down a traffic officer for help.
It is suspected—but not confirmed—that the victim may have previously worked with Duplessie and Woeltz in a business capacity.
Family of Woeltz Claims He Was ‘Controlled’
Meanwhile, Woeltz’s family has painted him as a victim of manipulation, telling The New York Post that the multimillionaire may have been coerced. “He’s a kind and loving person who may have been controlled by others,” a family member said.
Woeltz’s next court appearance is scheduled for May 28. Details regarding Duplessie’s court date are still pending.
