Three Convicted in NYC Gay Bar Drugging and Robbery Scheme That Left Two Dead

Jayqwan Hamilton, Robert Demaio, and Jacob Barroso face life in prison after being found guilty of murder, robbery, and conspiracy in a scheme targeting Hell's Kitchen gay bars.

A Manhattan jury found the three men guilty of murder, robbery, and conspiracy for drugging and robbing patrons of gay bars in Hell's Kitchen between 2021 and 2022.
The scheme resulted in the deaths of Julio Ramirez, 25, and John Umberger, 33, who died from overdoses of fentanyl-laced drugs provided by the defendants.
Prosecutors described how the group used drugs to incapacitate victims before stealing valuables, including phones, credit cards, and personal items, and draining bank accounts.
Two additional co-conspirators, Shane Hoskins and Andre Butts, pleaded guilty to related charges before the trial and received eight-year sentences.
The case has heightened concerns in New York City's LGBTQ+ community, with families of the victims expressing hope for closure following the verdict.