Crypto King's Shocking Kidnapping: NYC Townhouse Torture and Bitcoin Heist

A shocking crime has unfolded in New York City, where John Woeltz, known in some circles as the "crypto king of Kentucky," stands accused of kidnapping and torturing an Italian businessman for weeks. The motive? To steal his Bitcoin. The victim, whose net worth is estimated at $30 million, was held captive in a luxurious Nolita townhouse. According to law enforcement sources, Woeltz and a business partner, William Duplessis, who recently surrendered to authorities, allegedly subjected the victim to weeks of torture, including electrocution and pistol-whipping. A bail application reveals that the victim was finally able to escape on Friday after strategically providing Woeltz with his Bitcoin password, which was stored on his laptop, when Woeltz briefly left him unattended to retrieve the laptop. Exclusive video obtained by MSNBC shows the victim, barefoot and disheveled, seeking help from a police officer. The case highlights the risks associated with the increasing value of cryptocurrencies and the lengths criminals will go to obtain them. "This comes as we're getting a look at the moment that the alleged victim escaped weeks of torture and ran to an officer for help." said Emilie Ikeda, NBC News Correspondent. The investigation is ongoing, and both suspects face numerous charges, including kidnapping and assault.