BRONX, NY – Three men are facing federal charges after a series of violent robberies targeting women engaged in sex work at Bronx hotels, authorities announced today. Ramel Deckard, Dashawn Hampton, and Taliek Payne are accused of using firearms to terrorize and rob their victims, preying on a vulnerable population for quick cash.
The first incident occurred on August 15, 2023, when Ramel Deckard allegedly lured Victim-1 to a hotel room under the guise of a sexual appointment. Once inside, Deckard brandished a firearm, forced the victim into the shower, and stole her personal belongings and cash. Law enforcement released a still image of Deckard taken at the hotel, aiding in his identification and subsequent arrest.
Less than a month later, on September 19, 2023, Deckard and Taliek Payne allegedly targeted two more women, Victim-2 and Victim-3, at another Bronx hotel. The pair reportedly met the victims after they were advertised online. Upon entering the room, Deckard allegedly displayed a firearm and, along with Payne, robbed both women of their possessions and cash. The complaint further alleges Deckard physically assaulted Victim-2, striking her in the face with his elbow during the robbery.
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams stated, “These defendants, motivated by greed, allegedly targeted individuals engaged in sex work in the Bronx…My Office is committed to doing everything possible to protect the people in this District from violent crime.” The arrests were the result of a joint operation between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the New York City Police Department (NYPD).
Tommy Kalogiros, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s New York Field Division, emphasized the importance of protecting vulnerable communities. “Today’s arrests should send a strong message to those targeting the most vulnerable in our communities,” he said. The ATF/NYPD Strategic Pattern Armed Robbery Technical Apprehension Group will continue working tirelessly to detect, disrupt, and prosecute the most violent offenders.”
NYPD Commissioner Edward A. Caban added, “If you carry an illegal gun in New York City, and especially if you use that gun to terrorize our communities, you will be arrested and charged accordingly.” Deckard, Hampton, and Payne were arrested this morning and are expected to be arraigned in Manhattan federal court before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ona T. Wang. Federal prosecutors will pursue the maximum penalties allowed by law for these violent crimes, ensuring accountability for their predatory actions.
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Key Facts
- Agency: ATF
- Category: Violent Crime|Sex Crimes|Weapons
- Source: Official Press Release
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