Judge Sets Bail for Two Suspects Accused of Extortion and Torture Case Involving Bitcoin

NY Judge Orders $1 Million Bail for Bitcoin Credentials Torture Case

In a shocking turn of events, a New York judge has set bail at $1 million each for two suspects accused of subjecting a 28-year-old Italian man to a gruesome two-week ordeal of torture and extortion. John Woeltz, 37, and William Duplessie, 32, both U.S. residents and crypto investors, have been charged with first-degree kidnapping, second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, and assault.

According to the charges, the duo allegedly confined their victim in a SoHo townhouse, subjecting him to electrical shocks, pistol-whipping, cuts from a chainsaw blade, and threats with fire. The suspects reportedly photographed their captive during this period, highlighting the brutality of the ordeal.

As the case unfolds, prosecutors have revealed that two additional potential victims in separate crypto-related abductions may be connected to this heinous crime.

The judge’s decision comes after Duplessie’s attorney argued that video evidence shows the alleged victim smiling at times during his confinement. Prosecutors countered by explaining that individuals under duress may exhibit compliance or apparent calm while being abused.

Bail conditions dictate that both suspects must post a $1 million bond, and adhere to GPS monitoring as well as travel restrictions within New York City limits. The defendants remain in custody pending the completion of these arrangements.

In a related note, the victim was hospitalized following his rescue but has since recovered from his physical injuries. Prosecutors have not disclosed the value of cryptocurrency holdings targeted in the alleged scheme or whether any digital assets were successfully transferred.

This high-profile case serves as one of the most violent alleged crypto-related crimes to be prosecuted in New York courts.

Source: coinrevolution.com