(TJV NEWS) A New York Police Department detective assigned to Mayor Eric Adams’ security detail has been placed on modified duty. This follows disturbing allegations linking him to a violent kidnapping and torture case. The victims, two men who claim to be cryptocurrency entrepreneurs, were held captive in a luxury townhouse in SoHo.

Internal Investigation Launched

As first reported by VIN News and confirmed by NBC New York, the NYPD’s Internal Affairs Bureau is now investigating. The focus is on the officer’s off-duty activities and whether he helped facilitate the crime.

Sources say the detective may have worked as a private security guard for the Prince Street townhouse. This was allegedly the site where a 38-year-old Italian man was held. Even more troubling, the officer is suspected of transporting the victim from the airport to the location around May 6 — while unofficially working for the suspects.

Chilling Details of the Crime

The suspects, 37-year-old John Woeltz and his associate William Duplessie, now face multiple felony charges. These include first-degree kidnapping, assault, and unlawful imprisonment.

Prosecutors say the victim was lured to New York under the pretense of a business deal. Once he arrived, he was imprisoned for 17 days and subjected to what officials describe as a “campaign of sustained torture.”

According to VIN News, the man was beaten, electroshocked, forced to smoke crack, and threatened with harm to his family in Europe. The captors allegedly aimed to extract his Bitcoin passwords.

Victim’s Daring Escape

After more than two weeks, the victim managed to escape while his captors were distracted. NBC obtained security footage showing the man barefoot, injured, and running for help. His escape sparked a swift police response.

Police searched the townhouse and found cocaine, tactical gear, chicken wire, and Polaroid photos showing the man during his captivity. One image showed a gun held to his head — evidence prosecutors say is key to the case.

City Hall Responds

Mayor Eric Adams’ office released a brief statement:

“Every city employee is expected to follow the law, including our officers, both on and off duty. We are disturbed by these allegations. As soon as they came to our attention, the officer was placed on modified duty.”

Legal Proceedings and Broader Impact

Woeltz has been denied bail following a sealed grand jury indictment. His arraignment is scheduled for June 11. Prosecutors suggest more arrests could come as they analyze financial records and communications.

The possible involvement of a mayoral security officer has raised serious questions about oversight within the NYPD. Internal Affairs is now investigating whether the detective knowingly assisted in the crime or was misled. More NYPD members could be implicated as the probe continues.

Cryptocurrency and Crime

This case highlights a growing trend: violent crimes linked to cryptocurrency. Experts say crypto’s anonymity and irreversible transactions make it a target for criminals.

“This is not just a crypto crime,” one senior NYPD official told VIN News. “It’s a horrifying reminder of how brutal financial kidnappings have become.”

Investigation Ongoing

The detective at the center of the investigation has not been publicly named, and no formal charges have been filed. However, police sources say disciplinary or legal action may follow.

As the city processes this scandal, questions remain. How could such a serious breach occur within a team tasked with protecting New York’s highest officials?