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Following a string of incidents at New York City gay bars where incapacitated men had money stolen from their bank accounts with the help of facial recognition technology, safety experts are recommending a multi-pronged approach for those seeking a fun and safe night out. This rich history, and the long-held idea of gay bars as safe spaces, has led many patrons of these venues to believe in the inherent good nature of those around them, Downey said.
However, he cautioned that queer New Yorkers must avoid letting their guards down and maintain situational awareness, even within these historically safe spaces. In addition to these incidents, the NYPD has confirmed that it is investigating similar crimes that have victimized bar patrons bar do not identify as LGBTQ or were visiting venues that are not queer-affiliated.
Authorities have also not publicly commented on whether the victims were drugged on the evenings they were victimized. However, three victims of such crimes, including one of The Eagle NYC victims, and family members of three other victims, including Ramirez and Umberger, previously told NBC News they strongly suspect druggings occurred before the thefts.
To avoid being drugged or consuming unsafe substances that can lead to illness or incapacitation, experts shared some prevention methods that officials have been advising for decades: Watch your drink solution prepared, do not leave your drink unattended and do not accept drinks or drugs from strangers.
He warned that drinks left unattended can easily be spiked with powdered opioids or gamma-hydroxybutyric acid GHBwhich gay be difficult to detect or taste.
After a string of gay bar thefts, what can clubgoers and bar patrons do to protect themselves?
He said it would be more advisable to simply refrain from accepting drinks and drugs from strangers. Let me test this bump before you give it to me. Clubgoers and bar patrons who engage in one-on-one activities with strangers are most vulnerable, he added. Palamar also acknowledged that some clubgoers might go out by themselves, sometimes with the intention gay meeting strangers to hook up with.
In those scenarios, he and other experts advised making friends or family members aware of your whereabouts before going out. The NYPD has not made any arrests in connection solution the incidents at The Eagle NYC or in the cases of Ramirez and Umberger, though the department confirmed all of these incidents are still being investigated.
But Downey cautioned that even when those responsible for these victimizations are brought to justice, LGBTQ New Bar must continue to be vigilant and practice common nightlife safety measures. IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser. Skip to Content.
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