A Cryptic Crime in SoHo

A bizarre incident unfolded in the heart of New York City's SoHo neighborhood, involving a crypto investor and an Italian tourist. The tourist found himself in a nightmare after being lured to a home with promises of retrieving his Bitcoin. Instead, he was held captive and subjected to horrific torture for weeks. The suspect, John Woeltz, was caught off guard when police arrived. He was barefoot and wearing a bathrobe, a stark contrast to the serious charges he now faces. Woeltz is accused of kidnapping, assault, and unlawful imprisonment. His accomplice, Beatrice Folchi, was also taken into custody, but her role remains unclear. The Manhattan District Attorney's Office has not pursued charges against her, pending further investigation. The victim's ordeal began when he was tricked into going to Woeltz's home. Once inside, he was restrained and tortured. He was shocked with electric wires, had his leg cut with a saw, and was forced to smoke crack cocaine. The victim managed to escape by agreeing to give up his Bitcoin password, which was stored on his laptop. As soon as the suspect left to retrieve the laptop, the victim fled the apartment, seeking help from a nearby traffic agent. Prosecutors revealed chilling details about the torture. The victim was hung over a ledge and threatened with death if he didn't cooperate. His electronics and passport were hidden, and his family was threatened. The apartment was filled with disturbing evidence, including a saw, chicken wire, ballistic helmets, and Polaroids of the victim with a gun to his head. Woeltz, a crypto investor from Kentucky, rents an expensive apartment in the building. Neighbors were shocked by the chaotic crime scene, with police and SWAT teams descending on the area. The incident raises questions about the dark side of the crypto world and the lengths some will go to for financial gain. The victim's escape highlights the resilience of the human spirit. Despite the trauma, he found the strength to flee and seek help. The case serves as a reminder that even in bustling cities, horrific crimes can occur. It also underscores the importance of vigilance and community awareness in preventing such incidents.