Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

NYC Detectives Linked to Shocking Kidnapping Case

5/31/2025

49 4

Left

Detectives Under Investigation

New York City police are probing two detectives, one tied to Mayor Eric Adams' security team, in a shocking kidnapping and torture case of a cryptocurrency trader. The detectives have been reassigned after the victim's daring escape from a Manhattan townhouse, leaving many questions about their role in this disturbing incident.

Right

Duplessie and Woeltz Kidnap

William Duplessie and John Woeltz, two crypto traders, are accused of a shocking crime: kidnapping and torturing Italian businessman Michael Valentino Teofrasto Carturan in a SoHo townhouse. For nearly three harrowing weeks, Carturan suffered as they sought to extract his Bitcoin password. Both men, known for their lavish lifestyles and mounting debts, now face serious legal repercussions.

History

Historical Context

The kidnapping and torture of a cryptocurrency trader by two traders, linked to NYPD detectives, echoes historical instances of police corruption. Notably, the 1992 Mollen Commission exposed widespread corruption within the NYPD. This incident highlights ongoing issues of accountability and trust in law enforcement, reminiscent of past scandals that have prompted calls for reform and oversight in policing practices.

1 of 3

Detectives Under Investigation

New York City police are probing two detectives, one tied to Mayor Eric Adams' security team, in a shocking kidnapping and torture case of a cryptocurrency trader. The detectives have been reassigned after the victim's daring escape from a Manhattan townhouse, leaving many questions about their role in this disturbing incident.

1 / 3