A Dream Trip Turns into a Nightmare
What started out as a business trip in New York for 28-year-old Italian tourist Michael Valentino Teofrasto Carturan soon turned into a nightmare. Carturan arrived in the city on May 6 to reconnect with John Woeltz, a 37-year-old Kentucky cryptocurrency investor, who in some circles is referred to as the “crypto king of Kentucky.” Their previous business ventures had created a rapport of trust.
Upon arrival, however, Carturan was allegedly taken hostage in an expensive SoHo townhouse, subjected to almost three weeks of relentless torture to try and get him to divulge his Bitcoin password.
A House of Horror in Manhattan’s Center
Prosecutors allege that Woeltz, with the help of his 24-year-old aide, Beatrice Folchi, repeatedly assaulted Carturan. The victim reported being pistol-whipped, electrified, and even threatened with chainsaw dismemberment.
He was also forced to use cocaine and was tracked using an Apple AirTag. Polaroid photos recording the abuse were also found later by law authorities.
Escape and Arrest
Carturan orchestrated a brazen escape on May 23 by pretending to cooperate and giving a phony password. He escaped the townhouse barefoot and bloody, asking for assistance from a traffic agent who contacted the police.
During a search of the property, police discovered a stash of guns, drugs, and compromising photos. Woeltz was taken into custody at the scene and is being detained without bail, charged with kidnapping, assault, and illegal imprisonment. Folchi was also detained but not yet charged as the investigation is ongoing.
A Sustained Pattern in the Crypto Space
This is not an isolated incident. Across the world, there has been a wave of violent kidnappings for ransom targeting cryptocurrency investors. From Spain to Canada, cases have been reported where individuals have been kidnapped and tortured to gain access to their cryptocurrencies. The anonymous and decentralized nature of cryptocurrencies makes them desirable for criminals looking to amass untraceable digital wealth.
Community Response and Ongoing Investigation
The SoHo neighborhood has been left in shock at the discovery that such a horrific crime was committed there. As a response, a local clergyman performed a prayer at the torture site, anointing holy water to purify the area. Authorities continue searching for a third suspect believed to be involved in the kidnapping.
A Cautionary Tale for Crypto Investors
This case is a stark reminder of the real-world dangers facing cryptocurrency investors. As digital currencies become more widespread, so do the risks. Investors need to be cautious, stay discreet about their holdings, and take steps to protect their personal security.
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