Suspects Two men accused of kidnapping and torturing a cryptocurrency trader in Manhattan have been granted bail, according to updated court records.
Both men have pleaded not guilty to several charges, including kidnapping, assault, and coercion.
Victim’s Ordeal
The victim, a 28-year-old Italian cryptocurrency trader, had arrived in New York City in early May.
Prosecutors allege that the victim endured days of torture, with his captors threatening to kill him if he did not provide his Bitcoin password. When he resisted, he was beaten, shocked with electrical wires, and pistol-whipped. His wrists were bound, and threats were also made against his family.
Daring Escape
According to prosecutors, the victim escaped in late May after agreeing to retrieve his cryptocurrency password from his laptop in another room. When one of the suspects looked away, he fled the townhouse and sought help from a nearby traffic officer.
He was taken to a hospital where he received treatment for injuries described as consistent with severe restraint and assault, prosecutor Michael Mattson said, as reported by the Associated Press.
Arrests and Evidence
A search of the Manhattan townhouse revealed a disturbing cache of evidence, including cocaine, a saw, chicken wire, body armor, night vision goggles, ammunition, and polaroid photos of the victim.
Next Steps
As of Wednesday evening, both men remain in custody despite bail being set. Their next court appearance is scheduled for October 15.