A man named John Woeltz, 37, was arrested in Manhattan on Friday for allegedly kidnapping and torturing an Italian tourist over a span of 17 days in an attempt to steal the victim’s Bitcoin. The 28-year-old tourist escaped on Friday morning and sought help, prompting police intervention. Woeltz faces charges including second-degree assault, kidnapping, and unlawful imprisonment, and was arraigned on Saturday.
Woeltz and the victim, who had a business relationship along with another unidentified partner, had previously been involved in disputes, though it had never escalated to violence of this nature. Reports indicate that Woeltz and the third individual abused the victim in various ways during his captivity, including physical assault, electric shocks, and threats of death should he refuse to reveal his Bitcoin password. They are also said to have bound the victim and subjected him to degrading treatment, such as urinating on him.
After escaping, the victim approached a traffic agent, who called the police. He was subsequently taken to the hospital in stable condition, bearing numerous cuts, bruises, and marks from being tied. Investigators found significant evidence of the abuse at Woeltz’s rented residence, including torture items and Polaroid pictures documenting the victim’s mistreatment.
Neighbors expressed shock at the severity of the allegations, with one stating she had never witnessed such an incident in her 30 years living in the area. Despite Woeltz’s wealthy status as a prominent cryptocurrency trader, the motives behind his alleged actions remain perplexing to the community. His next court appearance is scheduled for Wednesday.
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