Two years after the shocking deaths of Julio Ramirez and John Umberger in New York City, the men responsible have finally been sentenced to long prison terms. Both victims were drugged, robbed, and left to die by a group of men who targeted them after nights out in Manhattan.
What Happened to Julio Ramirez?
In April 2022, Julio Ramirez, a 25-year-old social worker, left a Manhattan gay bar with a group of men. Around 3 a.m., they all entered a taxi together. Just one hour later, the taxi driver found Julio alone and unconscious in the back seat.
He had been drugged with a fatal mix of drugs, and all of his belongings — including his phone, wallet, and ID — were missing. His bank account had been emptied.
One Month Later, Another Life Lost
A month after Julio’s death, John Umberger, 33, was found dead in an Upper East Side townhouse. He had also been drugged and robbed by the same group. The attackers stole more than $20,000 from his accounts. What shocked many was that they even took photos, raised toasts, and relaxed on his balcony while John lay unconscious inside.
Who Were the Defendants?
In February 2024, Jayqwan Hamilton (37), Robert DeMaio (36), and Jacob Barroso (32) were found guilty of murder, robbery, and conspiracy in the death of Julio Ramirez.
Hamilton and DeMaio were also convicted of murder and burglary in the case of John Umberger.
Sentencing and Punishment
On Wednesday, the court sentenced:
- Hamilton and DeMaio to 40 years to life in prison
- Barroso, who was only involved in Julio’s death, to 20 years to life
Judge Felicia A. Mennin acknowledged the difficult childhoods some defendants had faced but said their actions were selfish and cruel. They had spent the stolen money on luxury goods, like designer shoes and expensive alcohol, showing no regard for the lives they destroyed.
Families Share Their Pain in Court
In emotional court statements, Julio Ramirez’s family expressed their heartbreak. His brother, Carlos Ramirez, asked the defendants how it felt knowing they would be remembered not with honour, but with shame. His mother, Ana, questioned whether her son was scared or even aware during his final moments.
John Umberger’s mother, Linda Clary, spoke powerfully too. She paused for 13 seconds of silence, the same length as a disturbing video the men allegedly recorded in her son’s apartment while doing nothing to help him.