Gay murder

Significant media coverage was given to the murder and what role Shepard's sexual orientation played as a motive for the crime, as he was gay. The prosecutor argued the murder of Shepard was premeditated and driven by greed.

Three men convicted of murder after luring men from New York City gay bars, drugging them and robbing them, were given lengthy prison sentences. Julio Ramirez, 25, and John Umberger, 33, died.