Bitcoin Kidnapping Case Duo Say Victim Was Laughing

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Bitcoin Kidnapping Case Duo Say Victim Was Laughing, Not Locked Up

Written by Aaron S.,

Editor-In-Chief

Last Updated: June 12, 2025

Key Takeaways

Duplessie and Woeltz pled not guilty to kidnapping by saying the alleged victim was free and seen in public acting normally;
Defense lawyers argued video clips show the man relaxed and using drugs, which contradicts claims of captivity and torture;
Prosecutors say the videos were used to mislead, and both men remain in custody with a court date set for July 15.

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William Duplessie and John Woeltz, charged in New York for allegedly kidnapping a man to steal his Bitcoin BTC $104,552.92 , have pleaded not guilty.

According to a report by Associated Press on June 12, their lawyers told the court that the alleged victim was not being held against his will and was seen smiling, laughing, and using drugs during the time he claimed to be in danger.

Duplessie and Woeltz appeared in a New York courtroom on June 11. Their legal teams said video clips showed the victim walking around New York and looking relaxed. They argued that it did not match the claim that he was being held captive and tortured.

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Prosecutors pushed back on the defense's claims. Assistant District Attorney Sarah Khan stated that the videos were shared in an attempt to create a false version of what happened. She said the goal was to make it seem like the man was free to leave, even though the full situation was different.

Authorities said they found photos of the victim with a gun to his head and another showing him being set on fire. They also recovered weapons, including a chainsaw and a loaded pistol, from the scene. They also stated that there may be two more individuals who were held by the same suspects in other locations.

Both Duplessie and Woeltz are facing serious charges, including first-degree kidnapping and assault. If found guilty, they could face a life sentence in prison. The judge denied their requests for bail, which means they will stay in custody until their next court date on July 15.

Meanwhile, on June 9, the US Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California announced guilty pleas from five men. What case were they involved in? Read the full story.