Shocking Crypto Torture Case: NYPD Officers Placed on Modified Duty
A shocking Crypto torture case in Manhattan involving a kidnapped trader has taken a dramatic turn with allegations linking New York Police Department (NYPD) officers to the incident. This development has led to two officers being placed on modified duty as a formal Police investigation gets underway.
How Are NYPD Officers Allegedly Involved?
Reports indicate that two NYPD detectives are allegedly connected to the townhouse where a crypto trader, identified as Michael Carturan, was reportedly held against his will and tortured. Detective Roberto Cordero, part of NYC Mayor Eric Adams’ security detail, is accused of picking up Carturan from the airport and transporting him to the location. Detective Raymond J. Low, who works narcotics cases, allegedly provided security at the Soho townhouse.
Both detectives have been assigned to modified duties while the NYPD’s Internal Affairs division investigates the claims. One detective was reportedly working off-duty when driving Carturan, while the other was allegedly paid by a suspect for security services. NYPD regulations typically require departmental approval for officers working for private security firms.
Details of the Crypto Kidnapping and Torture
The alleged victim, Michael Carturan, with an estimated net worth of $30 million, claims he was held captive for 17 days. The purpose of the abduction was reportedly to force him to reveal his crypto wallet phrase.
The alleged torture methods described are severe:
- Tied up with electrical cords.
- Electrocuted.
- Feet tased while submerged in water.
- An electric chainsaw held to his leg with threats of amputation.
Carturan reportedly escaped the townhouse on May 22, a day he claims his captors designated as his “death day.”
Suspects Charged in the Crypto Crime
Two men, John Woeltz and William Duplessie, have been charged with kidnapping and torture in connection with the case. Woeltz, sometimes known as the “crypto king” of Kentucky, has been indicted by a grand jury, and his bail request was denied. Duplessie, a Swiss national and co-founder of a crypto-focused venture capital firm, is awaiting indictment.
Officer Histories and the Ongoing Police Modified Duty
The two NYPD detectives linked to the case have histories of civilian complaints. Detective Cordero, a 20-year veteran, has faced four complaints, including allegations of abuse of authority, one of which resulted in disciplinary action in 2009. Detective Low has nine complaints, including allegations of excessive force, use of a chokehold, and providing a false official statement. While Low has not faced disciplinary action based on past complaints, he is awaiting a decision on recent allegations from late 2023 and early 2024.
Placing officers on modified duty is a standard procedure during internal investigations, restricting their operational capacity while the allegations are reviewed.
Summary
The Crypto torture case in New York involving the alleged kidnapping and brutal torture of a crypto trader highlights the dark side of the crypto world, where high value assets can attract violent crime. The alleged involvement of NYPD officers in driving the victim and providing security adds a concerning layer to the investigation. As the suspects face charges and the internal affairs probe into the officers continues, this case underscores the complex challenges law enforcement faces when crime intersects with the rapidly evolving world of cryptocurrency and private wealth.
