A Manhattan jury has found three men guilty of murder, robbery, and conspiracy in connection with a string of crimes that left two victims dead and several others traumatized. The convictions of Jayqwan Hamilton, Robert Demaio, and Jacob Barroso mark the conclusion of a harrowing case that exposed a targeted attack against LGBTQ bar patrons in New York City. The group was found to have drugged and robbed multiple individuals between March 2021 and June 2022, luring them into a deadly trap.
The case gained national attention following the mysterious deaths of 25-year-old Julio Ramirez and 33-year-old John Umberger. Prosecutors detailed how the men used drugs, including fentanyl and cocaine, to incapacitate their victims before stealing their belongings and draining their financial accounts. According to District Attorney Alvin Bragg, “These defendants were motivated by greed, and their callous behavior left two young men dead.”
A Pattern of Targeting LGBTQ Spaces
The trial revealed that the convicted men intentionally targeted LGBTQ-friendly nightlife venues, exploiting an atmosphere of celebration and trust to execute their crimes. This deliberate targeting underscores the vulnerability LGBTQ individuals continue to face, even in cities like New York, often seen as a haven for queer communities.
While the convictions offer some sense of justice, they also serve as a grim reminder of the persistent threats LGBTQ people encounter. The ability of these criminals to act over an extended period raises pressing questions about law enforcement’s responsiveness to crimes affecting LGBTQ individuals and whether more could have been done to prevent these tragedies.
Justice, but at What Cost?
Two additional individuals, Shane Hoskins and Andre Butts, had previously pleaded guilty to robbery charges and received eight-year sentences, though the families of Ramirez and Umberger argue that no sentence can truly make up for their loss.
For many in the LGBTQ community, the case has underscored the need for stronger protections against targeted violence. Advocates are calling for more awareness around drug-facilitated crimes and greater investment in safety measures for queer nightlife spaces.
While the guilty verdicts bring a measure of closure, they also highlight the fragility of LGBTQ safety—even in places meant to foster joy and connection.