The trial of three men accused of drugging, robbing, and murdering two victims outside New York City bars began on Wednesday in Manhattan. The defendants, described by prosecutors as part of an organised operation, targeted intoxicated individuals leaving nightclubs, offering them narcotics laced with lethal substances. Their alleged goal was to incapacitate victims, enabling them to steal mobile phones, credit cards, and access victims’ bank accounts.

The case centres on the tragic deaths of Julio Ramirez, 25, and John Umberger, 33, among dozens of other alleged incidents. Both victims succumbed to fatal doses of drugs, including fentanyl, after their night outs ended in encounters with the defendants. According to court documents, Ramirez died in April 2022 after being left incapacitated in a cab, while Umberger’s life ended in May 2022 at an apartment within 90 minutes of meeting the accused.

The defendants allegedly transferred thousands of dollars from victims’ bank accounts after administering the substances. Purchases included luxury sneakers and cash transfers through mobile banking apps. Prosecutors link the trio to a series of attacks involving over three dozen druggings dating back to September 2021.

Umberger’s grieving mother, among those expected to testify, highlights the devastating impact of the crimes. The trial could set a precedent for addressing such organised schemes in nightlife settings.

Source: abc7