Defendants Plead Not Guilty In NYC Crypto Kidnapping And Torture Case
John Woeltz and William Duplessie pleaded not guilty to charges of kidnapping and false imprisonment of Michael Valentino Teofrasto Carturan in a New York Supreme Criminal Court hearing. The men are accused of abducting Carturan, a cryptocurrency holder, and torturing him to access his crypto wallet. Justice Gregory Carro ordered them held without bail, with potential life sentences if convicted. The alleged kidnapping lasted approximately three weeks in a SoHo apartment before Carturan escaped and contacted authorities. The case reflects a growing trend of violence against individuals associated with cryptocurrencies. Additionally, two NYPD officers were placed on modified duties amid allegations of involvement in the kidnapping, though no criminal charges have been filed against them. New York City Mayor Eric Adams is promoting a crypto-friendly environment, advocating for BTC-backed municipal bonds and the repeal of the BitLicense program.
