NYC crypto bro kidnappers given $1M bail, judge prohibits payment in Bitcoin
July 24, 2025
Two New York City crypto enthusiasts are facing accusations of kidnapping and torturing an Italian millionaire, with prosecutors unveiling a shocking “manifesto” outlining their plans to steal crypto assets from foreigners. The pair, identified as John Woeltz, 37, and William Duplessie, 33, appeared in Manhattan Supreme Court, where they were granted $1 million bail each, under the condition that they could not pay using cryptocurrency.
Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Sarah Khan revealed that federal authorities had discovered a manifesto at Woeltz’s Kentucky cabin, detailing a scheme to steal cryptocurrency from individuals deemed nefarious. The document stated their intention to take coins from those funding terrorism, claiming it was necessary for people to use their crypto assets.
Despite Khan’s efforts to keep the defendants in custody until trial, arguing that their actions were part of a larger sinister plan, the judge ultimately set bail after the defendants’ attorneys compared the events to fraternity-style hazing. They alleged that the alleged victim, Michael Valentino Teofrasto Carturan, participated willingly in the activities, characterizing them as consensual.
The case came to light when Carturan escaped from a SoHo townhouse and informed police he had been held captive for weeks. Prosecutors later alleged that Woeltz and Duplessie had subjected him to torture to obtain his Bitcoin password, which included setting him on fire and using a chainsaw on him. However, the defense argued that the acts, which were captured on video and in photos, were part of what they claimed was a consensual party atmosphere.
According to defense attorneys, Carturan willingly participated in drug-fueled orgies, consumed alcohol, and engaged in other activities. They referenced text messages wherein Woeltz and Duplessie joked about the situation, suggesting that Carturan was a willing participant. The defense contended that the victim had even referred to the events as hazing himself.
Prosecutors, on the other hand, dismissed any notion that Carturan was not being tortured, pointing to evidence in the form of text messages detailing the victim’s distress. The messages referenced specific tools and preparations the defendants made, indicating a plan to dispose of a body.
Despite claims of the events being consensual hazing, the prosecution emphasized the tactics used by the defendants to keep the victim in a state of imbalance, including pressure, deceit, drugs, violence, and monitoring. Khan also highlighted previous allegations that the defendants had held two additional victims against their will, further complicating the case.
Both Woeltz and Duplessie have pleaded not guilty to kidnapping charges. If they are able to pay the bail set by the judge, they will be released to home confinement. Woeltz is seeking housing in New York, while Duplessie plans to move to Florida.