A mansion in Kentucky, valued at $1 million, was previously owned by a man imprisoned for allegedly torturing someone over cryptocurrency.
This six-bedroom home by the waterfront, reminiscent of the White House in style, was bought in January by John Watts, who calls himself the “Kentucky Cryptoking,” alongside his business partner William Dupressy, reportedly paying in cash.
Authorities have released information stating that the house was involved in an operation that required substantial resources, including involvement from the NYPD and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Footage acquired shows armored vehicles arriving in town for the operation. The area has a small population, with mentions of an unmarked black SUV being spotted at the scene. It’s unclear if anyone was home during the raid.
While officials haven’t confirmed if any items were seized from the property, there are rumors about secret tunnels located beneath the house.
Woeltz, age 33, and Dupressy, age 37, are awaiting trial on charges related to the alleged torture of their associate, Michael Carturan, who they supposedly held captive in an effort to extract a password for a digital wallet containing $28 million in cryptocurrency.
Neighbors noted the considerable activity around the home, with stories about the duo planning to turn the mansion into a venue for events, trying to integrate into the community. However, one neighbor, Joshua Johnson, indicated there were whispers that something was amiss with the constant traffic and unusual behavior.
Recent court proceedings revealed new evidence against the pair, including disturbing photos, with the prosecution claiming they kidnapped and assaulted Carturan. Both men have pleaded not guilty to the charges of kidnapping, assault, and illegal imprisonment, though their lawyers declined to comment.
The mansion, previously known as the Strait House and located by the Ohio River, is noted for its impressive amenities, including 10 bathrooms, a swimming pool, and tennis courts. The house was bought via a newly formed LLC just weeks before the purchase.
Additionally, there are reports that Carturan managed to escape and alert authorities about his situation after fleeing from a residence in New York.
Prior to their arrest, Woeltz and Dupressy had earned a reputation for lavish parties and extravagant expenditures.
