On May 23, 2025, an Italian tourist escaped from a luxury Nolita apartment in New York City. The 28-year-old man contacted a city traffic agent, leading to the arrest of 37-year-old crypto trader John Woeltz. The apartment had a reported rental value of $30,000 to $40,000 per month.
Police said Woeltz allegedly confined the tourist after a financial dispute. The victim had previously worked with him in crypto-related dealings. Officers found the tourist tied with electrical cords, repeatedly tasered, and pistol-whipped. He was also forced to put his feet in water during the tasering.
Authorities recovered Polaroid photos of the abuse, cocaine, a pistol, night-vision goggles, broken glass, and an Apple AirTag. The AirTag was locked around the victim’s neck. NYPD officers reported that the victim had a large wound consistent with a chainsaw injury.
John Woeltz: Blockchain Entrepreneur Linked to Kentucky Crypto Programs
John Woeltz is known in the crypto community as a blockchain entrepreneur. He appears in the 2021 Kentucky Blockchain Technology Working Group report as an administrative support contributor. He was involved in “Bluegrass Blockchain,” a state-led blockchain initiative.
Public records confirm that Woeltz joined an Ethereum hackathon in San Francisco. He worked on the “Blockchain Balloting Bot,” which won the competition. He also organized “Tech on Tap – Blockchain” events in Paducah, Kentucky.
Although active in public crypto forums, Woeltz had no personal social media profiles. Police noted that he may have used company accounts or deliberately avoided an online footprint.
Crypto Trader Allegedly Drugged Victim and Tracked Him Using Apple AirTag
According to police, the crypto trader forced the tourist to ingest cocaine. The Apple AirTag used to track him was found still attached to the victim. Law enforcement also discovered glass fragments and photos taken during the confinement.
The NYPD’s 5th Precinct confirmed the presence of chainsaw-related injuries. They also recovered a firearm and other items believed to be used for abuse. Investigators are now checking whether Woeltz had help from others.
Two people remain in police custody for questioning. Prosecutors have not yet disclosed the formal charges, but officials are preparing the case.
Crypto Community Responds as Case Develops
The NYC torture case involving John Woeltz has caught attention in blockchain and crypto circles. His work with Kentucky blockchain programs and Ethereum projects makes him a known figure in the crypto trader community.
The victim’s family in Italy has been notified. Authorities are offering support and are coordinating with U.S. officials. Police are continuing the investigation.
The crypto trader remains in custody as the case moves forward. The NYPD has not released further details about the charges or potential accomplices.
