Crypto King's Kidnapping: NYC Investor Arrested After Torture, Escape

A shocking kidnapping case unfolded in New York City's SoHo district, involving John Waltz, a Kentucky-based investor with assets exceeding \$100 million. Waltz, along with an unidentified accomplice, held his business partner, Chris, an Italian national and crypto investor, captive for three weeks in Waltz's luxurious townhouse. The victim was subjected to severe torture, including being tased in water, pistol-whipped, and even injured with a chainsaw. \"They tied me up, and it was terrifying,\" Chris recounted in an exclusive interview with local authorities. The ordeal ended when Chris cleverly tricked Waltz into retrieving a laptop, allowing him to escape barefoot and seek help from a nearby police officer. Police recovered Polaroids and T-shirts featuring Chris's image, serving as evidence of his ordeal. Waltz is currently in custody, facing charges including first-degree kidnapping with intent to extort. The search for his accomplice continues. This case underscores the dangers of high-stakes financial dealings and the lengths to which some will go to protect their assets.