Allegations Against Crypto Figures Spark Outrage
William Duplessie, an alleged crypto torturer, reportedly committed a shocking act at the upscale Aman resort in New York City, leading to his expulsion from the establishment, according to sources cited by Page Six. Duplessie and fellow accused investor John Woeltz are currently facing kidnapping charges for allegedly subjecting Italian crypto millionaire Michael Valentino Teofrasto Carturan to severe torture in an attempt to extract his Bitcoin password. Reports suggest that the two men had previously resided at the lavish 57th Street venue, as noted by TMZ.
Luxury Locale with Exclusive Amenities
The Aman is renowned for attracting celebrities and royals alike, featuring a private members-only club. Memberships at this elite venue come with a hefty price tag of $100,000, granting access to exclusive areas such as an outdoor terrace and a jazz club. According to a source, Duplessie was seen socializing in the members-only area on the 14th floor. It is alleged that an incident occurred involving Duplessie that was so egregious it prompted the property to sever ties with him and Woeltz, raising concerns among other hospitality operators about hosting the notorious duo.
High-Profile Ownership and Celebrity Appeal
The Aman is owned by Russian billionaire Vladislav Doronin, who acquired the property’s expansive 12,536-square-foot penthouse for $135 million last year. The luxury chain is popular among high-profile individuals, including Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, the Kardashians, and various members of royal families. After their time at the Aman, Duplessie and Woeltz reportedly moved to a multi-story townhouse in Soho, where they were known for throwing extravagant parties that lasted until dawn.
Details of the Alleged Torture
However, this party atmosphere took a dark turn as Duplessie and Woeltz are accused of transforming their residence into a site of horror. Authorities allege that they bound Carturan to a chair, assaulted him with a firearm, inflicted cuts on his limbs, and dangled him from the top of a staircase. Carturan reportedly managed to escape after nearly three weeks of captivity, emerging battered and shoeless, and sought help from a nearby NYPD officer. NYPD Chief John Chell described the situation as a prolonged kidnapping involving severe torture, including forced drug use and electrical shocks.
Legal Proceedings and Defense Claims
Duplessie is facing a range of serious charges, including kidnapping, unlawful imprisonment, assault, and weapons possession, and he was denied bail during a court appearance on Tuesday night. His attorney argued in Manhattan Criminal Court that the case against the 33-year-old crypto trader would lose credibility as more information becomes available. Attorney Sanford Talkin emphasized the contentious nature of the allegations, asserting that Duplessie’s involvement is fiercely contested.
Defense Request and Future Court Dates
During the hearing, Talkin requested a $1 million bail for Duplessie, asserting that he poses no flight risk and plans to reside with his father, who was present at the hearing. He suggested that if Duplessie intended to flee, he would not have sought legal representation. Duplessie’s next court date is set for Friday. Woeltz has also been arraigned on similar charges and is currently being held without bail at Rikers Island, with a family member asserting that he was “manipulated” and “completely controlled by other people.”
