New York Crypto Torture Plot: William Duplessie Arrested

Cryptos: 21,330
Exchanges: 1,863
Market Cap: $3.26T 0.37%
24h Vol: $285,478,070,553 3.94%
Dominance: BTC: 63.5% ETH: 9.3%
Gas: 0 GWEI

Connect

Crypto News Regulation

New York Crypto Torture Plot: William Duplessie Surrenders to Police

Written by Aaron S.,

Editor-In-Chief

Last Updated: May 28, 2025

Key Takeaways

William Duplessie, tied to a crypto-related kidnapping in New York, surrendered to police on May 27 and now faces multiple charges;
The victim, an Italian tourist, says he was held for weeks, beaten, and shocked to force him to give up access to his cryptocurrency;
Both Duplessie and John Woeltz, who is already in custody, are linked to a New York crypto hedge fund.

Ace quick missions & earn crypto rewards while gaining real-world Web3 skills. Participate Now! 🔥

New York Crypto Torture Plot: William Duplessie Surrenders to Police

BITDEGREE IN YOUR SOCIAL FEED

William Duplessie, a 33-year-old man believed to be involved in the kidnapping and abuse of an Italian tourist in New York, has turned himself in.

Duplessie was arrested by the New York Police Department on May 27, according to a report from The New York Times. Authorities said he will face charges related to the kidnapping and unlawful imprisonment of someone he knew.

The victim, Michael Valentino Teofrasto, is a 28-year-old tourist from Italy who had traveled to New York. While in Manhattan, he was allegedly taken against his will, held for several weeks, and forced to endure physical abuse.

What is Fantom? | Animated FTM Explainer

Did you know?

Want to get smarter & wealthier with crypto?

Subscribe - We publish new crypto explainer videos every week!

According to his statement to the police, the attackers tied him up, took his phone and passport, and repeatedly hit him. He also said he was shocked with a Taser and that his feet were placed in water while being electrocuted. The purpose was to pressure him into handing over access to his cryptocurrency.

John Woeltz, another suspect tied to the case, was already in custody. Both he and Duplessie are reportedly connected to a crypto-focused hedge fund based in New York.

Duplessie did not resist arrest. Instead, he spent several days speaking with police to arrange his surrender. The NYPD confirmed that he was arrested without incident and that charges will be filed against him.

On May 22, the US Attorney’s Office in Boston sentenced Massachusetts resident Trung Nguyen to six years in prison. What happened? Read the full story.