Incident Overview
In a disturbing turn of events, two members of the New York Police Department have been reassigned to modified duties amid allegations of their involvement in a horrific kidnapping and torture incident surrounding a cryptocurrency trader. The NYPD has confirmed that Detective Roberto Cordero and Detective Raymond J. Low are under scrutiny as part of an ongoing investigation into the abduction of Michael Valentino Teofrasto Carturan, who claimed he was held against his will in a Manhattan townhouse for 17 days.
Details of the Allegations
Reports from The New York Times indicate that Cordero, who is part of Mayor Eric Adams’ security detail, was implicated after allegedly picking up Carturan from the airport and taking him to the townhouse where he was reportedly tortured. It is also suggested that Low, who investigates drug-related crimes, provided security at the same location. After the allegations surfaced, both detectives were placed on modified duties while authorities investigate the matter further.
The mayor’s office expressed their concern over the situation, emphasizing their immediate action upon learning of the allegations. According to ABC11, officers of the NYPD must receive departmental approval to work in private security, and the Internal Affairs division is actively examining this case.
Nature of the Kidnapping
The controversy centers around the shocking claims made by Carturan, who stated that he managed to escape from his captors on May 22, after being threatened with death on that day. His alleged kidnappers, John Woeltz and William Duplessie, face serious charges of kidnapping and torture. During his ordeal, Carturan reported severe abuse, including electrical shocks, restraints, and threats involving an electric chainsaw.
Financial Motive
Financially, Carturan is purported to be quite affluent, with an estimated net worth of $30 million, which may have been the motive behind his kidnapping. Woeltz, known as the ‘crypto king’ of Kentucky, has been indicted, and a judge has denied his bail request. His attorney argued for his release based on various personal achievements, but this was unsuccessful. Duplessie, who co-founded the Pangea Blockchain Fund, is currently awaiting his court proceedings.
Background of the Officers
It is noteworthy that both Cordero and Low have had past complaints filed against them. Cordero, who has served for 20 years, has faced four civilian complaints, while Low has a more extensive history with nine complaints, including multiple allegations of excessive force and issuing false statements. Both are currently awaiting outcomes related to their records, which could impact their futures within the department.
Conclusion
As the investigation unfolds, the ramifications for those involved—both the officers and the accused criminals—continue to develop, with the public closely following this tense situation.
