Shocking Crime in Manhattan

A second suspect has been apprehended in a shocking alleged scheme involving the kidnapping and torture of an Italian tourist in an upscale Manhattan residence, all in a desperate attempt to steal his cryptocurrency.

The Gruesome Details

The suspect, 32-year-old William Duplessie, surrendered to authorities after his alleged partner in crime was arrested last week. The horrifying ordeal lasted for weeks, during which the victim claimed he was hung off a roof ledge, electrocuted, and even assaulted with a chainsaw as his captors demanded access to his Bitcoin wallet.

A Tale of Survival

Both Duplessie and John Woeltz, the 37-year-old man already in custody, face charges that include kidnapping for ransom, assault, and unlawful imprisonment. The nightmarish saga finally ended when the victim narrowly escaped the luxurious SoHo home after being held captive for nearly three weeks.

Victim's Brave Escape

The victim, whose identity is being kept confidential, arrived in New York from Italy on May 6. Upon reaching the suspect's residence, Woeltz allegedly confiscated his passport, locking him away for 17 days. Under extreme duress, the victim endured threats to his life and family, gun violence, and even forced drug use.

A Narrow Escape Leads to Justice

On a harrowing Friday morning, he managed to flee bloodied and barefoot after deceiving his captors into believing he would reveal his password. As they left to fetch his laptop, he took the opportunity to escape from the eight-bedroom townhouse.

Investigations Uncover Horrors

After the escape, he reported the brutal attacks to law enforcement and received medical treatment. Investigators searching the residence found chilling Polaroid photos of the victim bound and tortured, alongside firearms and drugs.

A Broader Trend in Crypto Crimes

In a related development, authorities in France arrested over 20 individuals linked to kidnapping plots targeting cryptocurrency entrepreneurs and their families. Criminal defense attorney David Seltzer remarked that these crimes are becoming alarmingly common, as criminals look for 'easier' ways to access cryptocurrency wealth.

Criminals Targeting Cryptocurrency

"Instead of robbing a bank, they can kidnap someone and gain access to their Bitcoin wallet or crypto wallet," Seltzer told reporters, highlighting the rising danger surrounding digital assets.