In one of the most exciting cases in the world of cryptocurrencies, cryptocurrency investors William Dubliacy (33) and John Waltz (37) have been accused of kidnapping and torturing an Italian businessman named Michael Valentino Teofrasto Cartoran (28) in an attempt to steal the password to his digital wallet containing an estimated $30 million in Bitcoin.
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🏙️ Background of the Story
Cartoran arrived in New York in early May 2025, after being lured by Waltz and Dubliacy, who had a previous business relationship with him. On May 6, he was kidnapped and held in a luxury eight-bedroom home in Manhattan's Soho neighborhood, where he endured brutal torture for 17 days.
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🔪 Details of the Torture
During his captivity, Cartoran was subjected to electric shocks, was cut with a saw, forced to smoke cocaine, and threatened with being thrown off the building's roof. He was also suspended by his feet from the top of the building in an attempt to force him to reveal the password to his digital wallet. On May 23, Cartoran managed to escape barefoot and covered in blood, and reported the incident to a traffic officer.
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🕵️♂️ Investigations and Arrests
Waltz was arrested on May 23, while Dubliacy turned himself in to the police on May 27. They face charges including kidnapping, assault, unlawful imprisonment, and illegal possession of weapons. During a search of the home, police found weapons, body armor, drugs, and Polaroid pictures showing Cartoran under duress.
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🚨 Implications of the Case
This case has sparked widespread debate about the risks of digital wealth and the crimes associated with it. Additionally, two New York police officers have been placed under investigation after it was revealed that they were providing private security services at the home where the incident occurred.
