NYPD Cops in Crypto Torture Plot?!

NYPD probing detectives who worked security at house where man says he was tortured, AP source says - AP News

NYPD Investigates Detectives Over Alleged Bitcoin Torture Case Connection


New York City is grappling with a disturbing case involving allegations of kidnapping, torture, and stolen Bitcoin, with a twist: two NYPD detectives are now under investigation for their potential involvement. According to an Associated Press source, the detectives were working security at a Manhattan townhouse where the alleged victim claims he was held captive and tortured for weeks.


The allegations have sent shockwaves through the city, raising questions about police conduct and the growing intersection of cryptocurrency and crime.


Key Details of the Investigation:


  • The Allegations: A man claims he was kidnapped and tortured for 17 days in a Manhattan townhouse by two crypto investors seeking to steal his Bitcoin.
  • The Detectives: Two NYPD detectives are under investigation for working security at the location. One is reportedly part of Mayor Eric Adams' security detail.
  • Modified Duty: Both detectives have been placed on modified leave pending the outcome of the internal inquiry.
  • Approval Questioned: The NYPD is investigating whether the detectives obtained prior approval for the private security work, as required by department regulations.

According to the unnamed city official, one of the detectives, who is on Mayor Adams' security detail, is suspected of picking up the victim from the airport and transporting him to the townhouse. The role of the second detective, a narcotics officer, remains unclear.


Mayor Adams' Response


Mayor Adams’ office issued a statement emphasizing that all city employees, including police officers, are expected to follow the law both on and off duty. “We are disturbed by these allegations,” the statement read.


Defense from Detectives' Union


James Moschella, a lawyer representing the NYPD detectives' labor union, defended the officers, stating that there is "absolutely no indication" either officer witnessed any illegal activity. He described them as "outstanding public servants with distinguished careers" who were legitimately employed driving a private client during their off-duty hours.


“There is simply no way to have predicted the true activities of what by all objective accounts were legitimate businessmen,” Moschella said in his statement. "Had they actually witnessed any such activity, we are certain they would have been the first to take action to stop it. We therefore ask everyone to withhold their judgment of these members until all the facts are in.”


The Alleged Crime


Crypto investors John Woeltz and William Duplessie have been charged in the case. Authorities allege that on May 6, they lured the 28-year-old Italian national to the townhouse by threatening to kill his family. He was then allegedly held captive for 17 days and subjected to torture, including being shocked with electrical wires, forced to smoke crack, and dangled from a five-story staircase.


The victim eventually handed over his computer password and managed to escape when his captors went to retrieve the device.


Coincidence and Irony


Adding a layer of irony to the situation, the investigation into the officers began on the same day Mayor Adams headlined a crypto convention in Las Vegas, touting New York City as the Bitcoin capital of the country.


The investigation is ongoing, and the truth remains to be fully uncovered. The convergence of alleged kidnapping, cryptocurrency, and potential police misconduct underscores the complexities and challenges facing law enforcement in the digital age. As the investigation unfolds, the public awaits answers, and the officers' careers, along with the reputation of the NYPD, hang in the balance.

Source: https://apnews.com/article/crypto-cryptocurrency-kidnapping-new-york-city-23b4c7974544854f61dfac8550dcb78e

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