Gruesome Extortion Case Linked to Cryptocurrency Investor
A cryptocurrency investor from Kentucky is under investigation for allegedly subjecting an Italian tourist to a harrowing ordeal involving torture and extortion in a luxury Manhattan apartment, according to police reports. John Woeltz, 37, was arrested after the 28-year-old tourist managed to escape from the SoHo apartment where he had been held captive for over two weeks. The victim approached a police officer early Friday morning, revealing the extent of his brutal treatment during his captivity.
Details of the Torturous Captivity
Upon their arrival at the upscale Prince Street residence, which Woeltz was reportedly leasing for a staggering monthly fee between $30,000 and $40,000, authorities uncovered chilling evidence. Multiple Polaroid photos depicted the tourist being bound with electrical wires and subjected to various forms of torture, including an image of him tied to a chair with a firearm aimed at him, according to insider accounts.
Allegations of Extreme Violence
The tourist endured a series of horrifying experiences, such as being restrained with electric cords, receiving electric shocks while submerged in water, being struck with a firearm, coerced into drug use, and threatened with dismemberment using a chainsaw. These acts of violence reportedly stemmed from a dispute over cryptocurrency, with Woeltz allegedly attempting to extort millions from the victim by inflicting suffering. Following his escape, the tourist was rushed to Bellevue Hospital for medical attention, and Woeltz was taken into custody and is expected to face assault charges.
The Chain of Events Leading to Captivity
Sources indicate that the nightmare began on May 6, when the tourist arrived in New York City from Italy to meet with Woeltz, with whom he had prior business relationships. Upon arrival at the luxurious apartment, Woeltz allegedly seized the victim’s passport and restrained him, initiating an extended period of torment. The victim’s suffering was captured in Polaroid photographs, seemingly intended for extortion purposes targeting either him or his family back in Italy.
Evidence of a Sinister Setup
Police discovered the gruesome photos scattered throughout the makeshift torture chamber, along with various instruments of terror, including broken glass, night vision goggles, a bulletproof vest, and a firearm. The victim also bore a wound on his arm, believed to be inflicted by a chainsaw, and had an Apple AirTag attached to him to monitor any escape attempts.
A Daring Escape Amidst Desperation
In a desperate bid for freedom, the victim felt that Friday might be the day of his execution and managed to escape. Ciaran Tully, a photographer operating nearby, witnessed Woeltz being arrested while wearing a robe and handcuffs. “This is certainly the most bizarre incident I’ve encountered here,” Tully remarked, noting the usually quiet nature of the area.
Community Reactions and Ongoing Investigation
A local jewelry vendor, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed suspicions about the recent influx of “crypto guys” into the neighborhood. “There was something off, but I assumed they were involved in something less sinister,” he commented. Woeltz is currently detained at the NYPD’s 5th Precinct while awaiting charges, and the Emergency Service Unit is conducting a thorough search of the premises to ensure no other victims are present.
