New York: Italians Victimized, Tormented for Bitcoin Access Details - Victimized and Tormented in New York: An Italian Man was Abducted and Physically Abused for his Bitcoin Private Key
In New York, a harrowing ordeal unfolds as an Italian tourist is kidnapped, tortured, and held captive for three weeks, with the alleged objectives being the extortion of his Bitcoin passwords.
On Friday, authorities apprehended two suspects in connection with these crimes. According to the charges, 37-year-old John Woeltz and 24-year-old Beatrice Folchi are accused of kidnapping, assault, and unlawful possession of a firearm. Another suspect, yet to be identified, remains at large.
The tale began in early May when the victim willingly visited a luxurious city residence, purportedly to meet someone with whom he had previous business dealings. In this apartment, an investor from Kentucky and an accomplice reportedly seized the man's electronic devices, passport, and demanded access to his Bitcoin accounts.
When the man refused, he was reportedly subjected to weeks of torture, including beatings, electric shocks, and threats to his life, as well as threats against his family. The kidnappers even threatened to throw him off a fifth-floor building if he didn't comply.
Following his escape on Friday, authorities arrested Woeltz at the residence, finding evidence such as a pistol and images depicting the torture. Moreover, they discovered two employees present at the location.
Further details about the kidnapping's planning and the suspects' history may be revealed in the coming days. The court date is set for May 28.
[1] Source: The New York Times, NBC New York, and The Washington Post.
I'm not sure, but it seems that the technology used by the kidnappers in this general-news case, which is being reported by The New York Times, NBC New York, and The Washington Post, involves the demand for Bitcoin passwords in a crime-and-justice incident. Despite their arrests, authorities are still searching for one more suspect connected to this harrowing ordeal where an Italian tourist was tortured and held captive for three weeks.
