A second individual has turned himself in to authorities in connection with the alleged kidnapping and torture of an Italian man in New York, a case that has rocked the crypto community. Miami-based William Duplessie, 33, is now in custody following the earlier arrest of crypto investor John Woeltz.
Crypto Duo Charged With Violent Crimes
Duplessie surrendered to police on May 27, just days after Woeltz—once known as the “Kentucky king of crypto”—was apprehended. The pair now faces a slew of serious charges, including assault, kidnapping, illegal detention, and firearm possession.
Duplessie is identified on Kando.Tech as the co-founder of Switzerland’s Pangaea Digital Asset Fund, an investment firm focused on revitalizing financially distressed blockchain startups. Law enforcement officials allege he and Woeltz were partners, though the details of their professional ties remain unclear.
Terrifying Plot to Steal Bitcoin From Italian Victim
Authorities believe the two men lured a 28-year-old Italian national to Manhattan on May 6 under false pretenses. Once inside a high-end Nolita apartment, the victim claims he was restrained, electrocuted, cut, threatened with a firearm, and even dangled from a balcony—all in an effort to force him to surrender access to his Bitcoin holdings.
After ultimately giving up his crypto credentials, the victim said the attackers turned their attention elsewhere, allowing him a narrow window to escape. He flagged down a nearby traffic officer, who helped bring the situation to light.
While the victim’s identity has not been disclosed, investigators suspect he may have had a prior business relationship with the accused men. That connection, however, has not yet been confirmed.
Family Suggests Woeltz May Be a Victim Too
In a twist, Woeltz’s relatives told The New York Post they believe he may have been manipulated by others involved in the incident. “He’s a kind, caring, loving person,” a family member stated, suggesting Woeltz may not have acted alone or of his own volition.
Woeltz is scheduled to appear in court on May 28. As of now, no date has been announced for Duplessie’s initial court hearing.
