Overview

• The men were convicted in February 2025 of murder, robbery, and conspiracy for drugging and robbing patrons of NYC gay bars between March 2021 and June 2022.
• Victims Julio Ramirez, 25, and John Umberger, 33, died after being administered fentanyl-laced drug cocktails during the scheme.
• Prosecutors revealed that the perpetrators used facial recognition technology to access victims’ phones and steal thousands of dollars through financial apps.
• Family members of the victims delivered emotional impact statements during the sentencing, describing the devastating toll of the crimes.
• The case prompted broader investigations into LGBTQ-related crimes in NYC and highlighted safety concerns for nightlife patrons.