NYC Crypto Investor Arrested for Kidnapping and Torturing Italian Tourist

A shocking case of kidnapping and torture has unfolded in SoHo, NYC. John Woeltz, a 37-year-old crypto investor, was arrested on Friday and charged with multiple felonies, including kidnapping and assault. The victim, an Italian tourist, was allegedly held captive for weeks and subjected to horrific abuse.

<img src="https://assets1.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/2025/05/25/10518749-a625-4840-956d-5346bdb8c41d/a51d41cd8ba7533c9a2294d7b3361b4a.jpg" alt="Image related to the arrest">

The Horrific Details

Prosecutors revealed gruesome details during Woeltz's arraignment. The victim, lured under the pretense of retrieving Bitcoin, was allegedly tied up, shocked with electric wires, and had his leg cut with a saw. He was also forced to smoke crack cocaine. Police found disturbing evidence at the scene, including a saw, chicken wire, and Polaroids of the victim with a gun to his head.

The victim escaped and flagged down a traffic agent, leading to Woeltz's arrest. A second individual, Beatrice Folchi, was also initially arrested but later released pending further investigation.

Woeltz's Background

Woeltz, a Kentucky native, is described as a crypto investor who rents a luxury apartment in SoHo for a hefty sum.

Community Reaction

Neighbors expressed shock and disbelief at the incident. The alleged crime scene was described as chaotic, with police and SWAT teams responding to the scene.

This case highlights the dark side of cryptocurrency and the potential for violence in high-stakes financial dealings. The investigation is ongoing.