CRIME

Bitcoin Heist Gone Wrong: The Strange Case of the SoHo House

USA, New YorkSat Aug 02 2025

In a bizarre turn of events, a man accused of kidnapping for cryptocurrency was released from jail on a huge bond.

John Woeltz: Released Under Strict Conditions

  • Electronic Monitor: Required to wear an electronic monitor.
  • House Arrest: Must stay at home, except for:
  • Medical appointments
  • Court appearances
  • Passport Surrender: Had to give up his passport.

Prosecutors' Concerns

Prosecutors expressed dissatisfaction with the release, citing:

  • Flight Risk: Woeltz owns a private jet and a helicopter.
  • Co-Accused Still Jailed: William Duplessie remains in custody.

Allegations and Victim's Ordeal

Both men deny guilt and are accused of:

  • Kidnapping
  • Assault
  • Torture

The Crime Scene

  • Location: A fancy house in SoHo, New York.
  • Methods: Allegedly used electric wires, drugs, and physical torture.
  • Duration: Victim held for 17 days.
  • Escape: Victim fled bleeding and barefoot after providing his computer password.
  • Woeltz's Lawyer: Remained tight-lipped.
  • Duplessie's Lawyer: Did not respond to requests for comment.
  • Earlier Defense: Claimed the victim was there willingly and could leave anytime.
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questions

    How do the defense's arguments about the victim's participation in activities challenge the prosecution's narrative?
    Could the victim's story be a cover-up for a larger crypto heist involving high-profile individuals?
    Is there a possibility that the prosecutors are hiding key details to protect someone more influential?

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