News Summary
A Kentucky cryptocurrency investor has been arrested for allegedly torturing an Italian businessman in SoHo, Manhattan. The victim endured over two weeks of horrific abuse, including being bound and assaulted in a luxurious townhouse. He managed to escape and alert authorities, leading to the arrest of John Woeltz and another individual connected to the case. The investigation continues as police look into potential accomplices involved in this shocking crime.
Shocking Crime Scene in Manhattan: Kentucky Investor Arrested for Alleged Torture
In a story that sounds more like a twisted movie script than real life, a 37-year-old cryptocurrency investor from Kentucky, John Woeltz, has been arrested for allegedly torturing a 28-year-old Italian businessman. The harrowing details of this crime, which went on for more than two weeks, unfolded in a luxurious townhouse situated in the heart of SoHo, Manhattan.
Captivity with Horrific Conditions
Police reports indicate that the young businessman was subjected to unspeakable abuse in an effort to extract his Bitcoin password. His nightmare reached a turning point one Friday morning when he managed to escape. Rushing out, he approached a nearby police officer and signaled that he had been held captive and tortured for weeks.
A Twisted Lead-Up to the Escape
While held against his will, the victim faced all manners of horrific physical abuse. He was bound with electrical cords, and in a cruel twist, even had an Apple AirTag fixed around his neck to monitor any attempts he might make to escape. The abuse escalated to shocking levels, including being Tased with his feet submerged in water, pistol-whipped, fed cocaine, and threatened with a dismemberment tool: an electric chainsaw.
Chilling Evidence Found
Investigators found several disturbing items in Woeltz’s rented townhouse, which reportedly cost between $30,000 to $40,000 per month. The confrontational discovery revealed various torture implements such as broken glass, night vision goggles, and a bulletproof vest. Even more chilling were the Polaroid photos documenting the torture, including one where the victim was bound to a chair with a gun pointed at his head.
The Victim’s Condition
After he managed to escape, the victim was taken to Bellevue Hospital where he was treated for his extensive injuries, which included a possible chainsaw cut on his arm. The harrowing ordeal he suffered has understandably left him shaken, but thankfully he is safe now.
Legal Actions and Arrests
In the wake of these events, Woeltz has been charged with serious offenses including two counts of second-degree assault, first-degree kidnapping, and criminal possession of a weapon. Another individual, Beatrice Folchi, a 24-year-old from Manhattan, was also arrested and is facing charges of first-degree kidnapping and unlawful imprisonment in connection with this disturbing case.
Background and Ongoing Investigations
The businessman had arrived in New York City from Italy on May 6, intent on meeting Woeltz, with whom he reportedly had previous business dealings. Investigators believe there might be additional individuals associated with Woeltz who were involved in these heinous acts; police are actively interviewing these individuals.
Community Reaction
Neighbors and vendors in the area have expressed shock at the scene that unfolded. The townhouse, known for its high-end parties and lifestyle, had apparently masked the reality of the terrifying situation occurring within its walls. Despite previous reports of loud parties and unusual behavior, authorities had no idea of the horror that was taking place inside.
What’s Next for Woeltz?
Following his arraignment, Woeltz has been denied bail and must surrender his passport as the legal proceedings unfold. As the case progresses, it’s clear that the severity of the situation has left a lasting impact on all those involved, and the investigation remains active.
This heartbreaking story raises serious concerns about the darker side of cryptocurrency investments and the potential for crime, reminding us that not all that glimmers in the digital gold rush is pure. Stay tuned for updates as this shocking case continues to unravel.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- CBS News
- Wikipedia: Kidnapping
- New York Post
- Google Search: Kidnapping and torture in New York
- The New York Times
- Google Scholar: Cryptocurrency crime
- BBC News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Crime and punishment
- The Guardian
- Google News: Kidnapping and torture in the United States
- NBC New York
