EddieJayonCrypto
28 May 25
William Duplessie was arrested in New York as part of a manhunt related to the kidnapping of a 28-year-old Italian Bitcoin investor. Duplessie and John Woeltz allegedly held the businessman captive in a Manhattan apartment for two weeks, torturing him to gain access to his Bitcoin. Duplessie faces m...
William Duplessie was arrested in New York for his alleged involvement in the violent kidnapping and torture of a Bitcoin investor to access the victim's digital assets. Duplessie faces multiple charges including assault, kidnapping, unlawful imprisonment, and criminal possession of a firearm. Beatrice Folchi, assistant to co-accused John Woeltz, was arrested but later released pending further investigation. This case exemplifies a rising global trend of violent crimes targeting cryptocurrency holders. Similar incidents have occurred in Paris, including the abduction of Ledger co-founder David Balland, who was subjected to brutal violence. John Woeltz was arrested after the victim escaped, facing serious charges that carry potential life imprisonment if convicted. Duplessie and Woeltz allegedly held the 28-year-old Italian Bitcoin investor captive in a Manhattan apartment for two weeks, torturing him with electric shocks, physical beatings, and firearm threats to force access to his Bitcoin holdings. Authorities have not confirmed if Duplessie's arrest is linked to a wider criminal network or disclosed his legal representation status. Folchi, charged with first-degree kidnapping and unlawful imprisonment, was released as prosecutors continue investigations. The Manhattan District Attorney’s office is pursuing significant charges against both Duplessie and Woeltz, who could face 15 years to life in federal prison upon conviction. These incidents highlight an alarming increase in crypto-related violent crimes, reflecting criminals’ growing focus on digital asset holders. Recent actions by French police, including the arrest of 12 suspects connected to Paris kidnappings, underscore the international scope of such threats. The case raises awareness about the vulnerability of cryptocurrency investors to physical threats and extortion in addition to online risks.