Three Suspects Charged in Murder of Two Men Leaving NYC Gay Bars

Two gay men who were drugged, robbed and subsequently killed after leaving clubs in Manhattan's Hell's Kitchen neighborhood last year are finally getting justice.

As reported by the New York Times, three men were charged with crimes surrounding the deaths of social worker Julio Ramirez and political consultant John Umberger.

NYT reports that Justin Barroso, 30, and Robert DeMaio, 34, were charged with the murder of Ramirez. DeMaio was also charged with the murder of Umberger. The third suspect, Andre Butts, was charged with robbery, identity theft, grand larceny and conspiracy. Barroso and DeMaio also face such charges.

The circumstances surrounding Umberger and Ramirez's deaths last year sent shock waves throughout New York City's LGBTQ scene. Now with those responsible behind bars, the community might feel some relief, but police caution that not all of those responsible have been captured.

Prosecutors believe the crimes were executed by "a crew" of attackers.

According to investigating police, one suspect, Jayqwan Hamilton, still remains at large.

In the indictment for the suspects, several other crimes were disclosed, "including attacks on at least three people that prosecutors say were drugged and robbed by Mr. Barroso, Mr. Hoskins and Mr. Butts before and after the deadly attack on Mr. Ramirez," NYT reports.

The Ramirez family reportedly did not respond about the suspects being charged. However, Catie Savage, a friend of Ramirez, expressed her frustration that it too so long to give the victims justice.

"It feels like a failure on the part of the system that it took so long," said Ms. Savage. "They could have prevented more things from happening."