1 00:00:08,908 --> 00:00:10,943 - It was a brutal killing... 2 00:00:11,011 --> 00:00:14,747 Of a beloved man that shocks his queens community. 3 00:00:14,815 --> 00:00:16,381 - He was screaming, 4 00:00:16,383 --> 00:00:18,083 "they're killing me, they're killing me." 5 00:00:18,152 --> 00:00:19,584 [tense music] 6 00:00:19,653 --> 00:00:22,554 - Where the body was, it was a large amount of blood. 7 00:00:22,623 --> 00:00:26,491 - This individual was hit in the head with a claw hammer. 8 00:00:26,560 --> 00:00:30,763 Also there was knurl marks from the pipe wrench 9 00:00:30,831 --> 00:00:32,397 Across the face. 10 00:00:32,399 --> 00:00:34,099 - This was a brutal murder. 11 00:00:34,167 --> 00:00:35,934 - There are no witnesses found, 12 00:00:36,003 --> 00:00:37,736 No new leads are being developed. 13 00:00:37,804 --> 00:00:39,705 - When the case goes cold... 14 00:00:43,844 --> 00:00:45,944 - Pressure on the police heats up. 15 00:00:46,013 --> 00:00:48,113 - We wanted to take the case directly to the mayor. 16 00:00:52,519 --> 00:00:55,120 - There were a number of us that said, 17 00:00:55,188 --> 00:00:56,655 "this is it. We've had enough." 18 00:00:59,326 --> 00:01:00,759 - The gay community 19 00:01:00,827 --> 00:01:03,628 Had put so much pressure on law enforcement, 20 00:01:03,630 --> 00:01:05,831 It actually changed that investigation. 21 00:01:05,899 --> 00:01:07,533 - The lieutenant, george byrd, 22 00:01:07,601 --> 00:01:10,735 Decides that he's going to go undercover. 23 00:01:10,804 --> 00:01:11,636 - And what did I learn? 24 00:01:11,705 --> 00:01:14,372 There was hatred for the gay community. 25 00:01:14,441 --> 00:01:16,608 "let's exterminate 'em, let's get 'em out of here." 26 00:01:16,610 --> 00:01:19,210 - We wanted justice for julio. 27 00:01:19,280 --> 00:01:21,246 [ominous music] 28 00:01:21,248 --> 00:01:23,982 [tense bassy music] 29 00:01:24,051 --> 00:01:31,056 ♪ ♪ 30 00:01:36,163 --> 00:01:39,431 [tense music] 31 00:01:39,499 --> 00:01:42,034 - 1990. It was a year of record homicides. 32 00:01:42,102 --> 00:01:43,568 I was a sergeant then, 33 00:01:43,570 --> 00:01:45,837 And the city was under siege with crime. 34 00:01:45,906 --> 00:01:47,706 But one murder in particular 35 00:01:47,774 --> 00:01:50,575 Helped shape the nypd for decades to come. 36 00:01:50,577 --> 00:01:53,712 It was the vicious and brutal killing of julio rivera. 37 00:01:53,780 --> 00:01:56,949 ♪ ♪ 38 00:01:57,017 --> 00:01:58,383 [siren wailing] 39 00:01:58,452 --> 00:02:00,385 It happened in jackson heights, queens, 40 00:02:00,454 --> 00:02:01,953 Known as one of the most culturally diverse 41 00:02:01,955 --> 00:02:03,122 Neighborhoods in new york city, 42 00:02:03,190 --> 00:02:04,989 If not the world. 43 00:02:04,991 --> 00:02:06,124 But back in the day, 44 00:02:06,193 --> 00:02:08,493 Not everyone was welcomed with open arms. 45 00:02:08,562 --> 00:02:09,794 And on a hot summer night, 46 00:02:09,863 --> 00:02:13,732 A violent attack shone a harsh light on hate. 47 00:02:13,800 --> 00:02:18,170 ♪ ♪ 48 00:02:18,238 --> 00:02:20,939 [train tracks clacking] 49 00:02:21,008 --> 00:02:22,274 ♪ ♪ 50 00:02:22,342 --> 00:02:25,977 - This was the July 4th weekend in 1990. 51 00:02:25,979 --> 00:02:30,949 Julio was my close friend and, you know, life partner. 52 00:02:31,018 --> 00:02:36,287 I had seen him 20 minutes before and we said good night. 53 00:02:36,357 --> 00:02:38,723 And he went one way and I went the other. 54 00:02:38,792 --> 00:02:41,793 [suspenseful music] 55 00:02:41,862 --> 00:02:46,631 And I had met another friend on my way home. 56 00:02:46,700 --> 00:02:50,702 We were talking, and five minutes later, 57 00:02:50,771 --> 00:02:54,439 Some guy comes running down 78th street screaming, 58 00:02:54,508 --> 00:02:56,508 "they're killing somebody in the schoolyard. 59 00:02:56,576 --> 00:02:59,111 They're killing somebody in the schoolyard." 60 00:02:59,179 --> 00:03:03,115 Never in my wildest dreams did I think that it was julio. 61 00:03:03,183 --> 00:03:05,817 [ominous music] 62 00:03:05,886 --> 00:03:11,256 And when we ran up the street to see what was going on... 63 00:03:11,324 --> 00:03:14,927 I saw julio. He was about to pass out. 64 00:03:14,995 --> 00:03:19,531 The blood was just coming from all over. 65 00:03:19,600 --> 00:03:22,834 Just covered in blood. 66 00:03:22,903 --> 00:03:24,269 And I went over to him 67 00:03:24,337 --> 00:03:26,471 And I said to him, "julio, it's alan. 68 00:03:26,540 --> 00:03:27,372 Do you know who did this to you?" 69 00:03:27,440 --> 00:03:30,142 And he shook his head no from side-to-side. 70 00:03:30,210 --> 00:03:32,043 ♪ ♪ 71 00:03:32,045 --> 00:03:34,179 - While his friend ran to call an ambulance, 72 00:03:34,247 --> 00:03:36,948 Alan clung to julio. 73 00:03:37,017 --> 00:03:40,885 - I held him and reassured him that he was gonna be fine, 74 00:03:40,887 --> 00:03:43,421 That he was definitely gonna make it, just hang on. 75 00:03:43,490 --> 00:03:45,023 [sirens wailing] 76 00:03:45,025 --> 00:03:48,793 - An ambulance arrives within minutes of the 911 call, 77 00:03:48,862 --> 00:03:52,831 And rush him to nearby elmhurst hospital. 78 00:03:52,899 --> 00:03:55,767 [respirator hissing] 79 00:03:55,836 --> 00:03:58,303 - They made every effort possible to save him. 80 00:03:58,371 --> 00:04:00,605 [steady tone droning] 81 00:04:00,674 --> 00:04:05,276 He did expire at the age of 29. 82 00:04:05,346 --> 00:04:11,950 ♪ ♪ 83 00:04:12,019 --> 00:04:13,352 - It's nearly 4:00 a.M., 84 00:04:13,420 --> 00:04:15,654 And with an assault victim now deceased, 85 00:04:15,722 --> 00:04:17,155 Officers and homicide detectives 86 00:04:17,224 --> 00:04:18,890 From the local 115 precinct 87 00:04:18,959 --> 00:04:21,726 Are at the scene of the attack... 88 00:04:21,728 --> 00:04:23,761 The schoolyard of ps 69, 89 00:04:23,831 --> 00:04:26,564 A place that was already on the cops' radar. 90 00:04:26,633 --> 00:04:29,468 - Ps 69 is known for, like, a low-level 91 00:04:29,536 --> 00:04:31,770 Quality of life type of crime location. 92 00:04:31,838 --> 00:04:33,604 There's drug dealing that goes on there 93 00:04:33,606 --> 00:04:38,777 And some prostitution that would take place there. 94 00:04:38,845 --> 00:04:41,612 The dark schoolyard is sort of the perfect place for a crime. 95 00:04:41,614 --> 00:04:42,547 [indistinct radio chatter] 96 00:04:42,616 --> 00:04:44,482 - Officers cordon off the area 97 00:04:44,551 --> 00:04:47,386 And begin their search for evidence. 98 00:04:47,388 --> 00:04:49,054 ♪ ♪ 99 00:04:49,122 --> 00:04:50,355 - Where the body was, 100 00:04:50,424 --> 00:04:52,524 There was a large amount of blood, 101 00:04:52,592 --> 00:04:58,297 A smashed bottle that possibly indicated a fight. 102 00:04:58,365 --> 00:05:01,866 - It's pretty clear that mr. Rivera was engaged 103 00:05:01,935 --> 00:05:03,568 In some kind of a violent struggle. 104 00:05:03,637 --> 00:05:06,138 [indistinct radio chatter] 105 00:05:06,206 --> 00:05:07,506 ♪ ♪ 106 00:05:07,574 --> 00:05:09,574 - But other than a smashed bottle, 107 00:05:09,642 --> 00:05:10,809 There was no other evidence to go on. 108 00:05:10,877 --> 00:05:15,013 Their best bet is to find a witness. 109 00:05:15,015 --> 00:05:17,449 - Police conducted an area canvas. 110 00:05:17,517 --> 00:05:19,618 They're hoping to first, 111 00:05:19,686 --> 00:05:22,520 Identify someone who might have seen or heard something. 112 00:05:22,589 --> 00:05:27,259 But at this particular point, there are no witnesses found. 113 00:05:27,327 --> 00:05:29,294 ♪ ♪ 114 00:05:29,296 --> 00:05:30,995 - It's now after dawn. 115 00:05:30,997 --> 00:05:33,064 As the officers wrap up the scene, 116 00:05:33,133 --> 00:05:35,467 Alan sack, who just left the hospital, 117 00:05:35,535 --> 00:05:36,935 Faces the terrible task 118 00:05:37,003 --> 00:05:39,003 Of delivering the devastating news. 119 00:05:39,005 --> 00:05:41,606 ♪ ♪ 120 00:05:41,608 --> 00:05:44,976 - Monday July 3rd, I'm getting ready to go to my job... 121 00:05:45,045 --> 00:05:48,980 [phone ringing] and the phone rings. 122 00:05:49,049 --> 00:05:52,751 And it's alan sack, 123 00:05:52,819 --> 00:05:57,889 And he says, "peggy, I have some bad news for you 124 00:05:57,958 --> 00:05:59,391 Regarding julio." 125 00:05:59,459 --> 00:06:01,559 ♪ ♪ 126 00:06:01,561 --> 00:06:06,564 And when he said julio's dead... 127 00:06:06,633 --> 00:06:08,766 You hear it, but it's an echo. 128 00:06:08,835 --> 00:06:12,571 He's dead? He's dead? 129 00:06:12,573 --> 00:06:14,772 ♪ ♪ 130 00:06:14,841 --> 00:06:20,044 It's difficult to-to... 131 00:06:20,046 --> 00:06:20,945 To absorb. 132 00:06:21,014 --> 00:06:22,080 It's difficult to absorb. 133 00:06:22,149 --> 00:06:25,984 ♪ ♪ 134 00:06:26,052 --> 00:06:29,354 [somber music] 135 00:06:29,356 --> 00:06:34,225 Julio was a lot of fun. 136 00:06:34,294 --> 00:06:35,727 ♪ ♪ 137 00:06:35,795 --> 00:06:39,331 He was so extraordinarily handsome. 138 00:06:39,399 --> 00:06:41,633 He looked like a really, 139 00:06:41,701 --> 00:06:43,535 Really good-looking freddie mercury. 140 00:06:43,603 --> 00:06:46,738 And that was his era, you know? 141 00:06:46,807 --> 00:06:49,006 He always was true to himself. 142 00:06:49,076 --> 00:06:54,312 Julio wanted to share his gay life with us. 143 00:06:54,381 --> 00:06:57,716 ♪ ♪ 144 00:06:57,784 --> 00:07:01,018 Julio's family are puerto rican. 145 00:07:01,088 --> 00:07:06,257 They lived in what we call the projects in the bronx. 146 00:07:06,326 --> 00:07:11,363 The bronx had to be a tough place for julio to grow up. 147 00:07:11,431 --> 00:07:15,533 His homosexuality became more and more evident. 148 00:07:15,602 --> 00:07:18,503 Julio was definitely 149 00:07:18,572 --> 00:07:22,073 Made fun of and ridiculed and harassed 150 00:07:22,142 --> 00:07:26,211 To the point that he was not going to school a lot. 151 00:07:26,279 --> 00:07:29,948 Julio had to learn how to hold his own. 152 00:07:30,016 --> 00:07:33,251 ♪ ♪ 153 00:07:33,319 --> 00:07:37,255 I absolutely know that julio wanted to get out. 154 00:07:37,323 --> 00:07:41,226 He, of course, discovers the gay community in queens 155 00:07:41,294 --> 00:07:43,428 And moves to jackson heights. 156 00:07:43,496 --> 00:07:47,799 Julio was happy to find life in jackson heights, 157 00:07:47,867 --> 00:07:53,204 And beloved by anyone who had time to spend with him. 158 00:07:53,273 --> 00:07:56,608 When we found out that julio was murdered, 159 00:07:56,676 --> 00:07:59,177 It's devastating to hear news like that. 160 00:07:59,246 --> 00:08:00,611 It's crushing. 161 00:08:00,681 --> 00:08:03,781 ♪ ♪ 162 00:08:03,783 --> 00:08:05,717 [tense music] 163 00:08:05,785 --> 00:08:07,586 - Back at the 115 precinct, 164 00:08:07,654 --> 00:08:09,354 Detectives have little to go on. 165 00:08:09,422 --> 00:08:10,621 But by late morning, 166 00:08:10,691 --> 00:08:13,357 The medical examiner submits an autopsy report, 167 00:08:13,427 --> 00:08:15,493 And the results are disturbing. 168 00:08:15,562 --> 00:08:19,597 ♪ ♪ 169 00:08:19,666 --> 00:08:21,032 - The medical examiner notes 170 00:08:21,101 --> 00:08:23,834 Numerous facial and head injuries 171 00:08:23,836 --> 00:08:26,638 Indicative of being assaulted, blunt trauma. 172 00:08:26,706 --> 00:08:27,939 Some of those wounds are consistent 173 00:08:28,008 --> 00:08:30,509 With being struck with a claw hammer. 174 00:08:30,577 --> 00:08:33,912 - And then he suffered from a single stab wound to the back, 175 00:08:33,980 --> 00:08:35,246 Where it punctured his lung, 176 00:08:35,315 --> 00:08:38,382 Which they deemed to be the fatal blow. 177 00:08:38,384 --> 00:08:40,785 ♪ ♪ 178 00:08:40,854 --> 00:08:46,190 It's a vicious, violent crime. 179 00:08:46,192 --> 00:08:48,860 ♪ ♪ 180 00:08:48,928 --> 00:08:50,428 - Results from a toxicology test 181 00:08:50,497 --> 00:08:52,997 Are also included in the medical examiner's report. 182 00:08:53,066 --> 00:08:56,400 It offers detectives a possible motive. 183 00:08:56,470 --> 00:08:58,603 - Cocaine was found in his bloodstream. 184 00:08:58,672 --> 00:09:00,004 It's pretty significant in this case 185 00:09:00,073 --> 00:09:02,840 That the homicide was probably 186 00:09:02,909 --> 00:09:05,543 The result of something to do with narcotics. 187 00:09:05,612 --> 00:09:07,912 - The detectives knew that 188 00:09:07,981 --> 00:09:13,017 Around ps 69, there was lots of drug sales going on. 189 00:09:13,086 --> 00:09:15,753 It was a easier conclusion to come to 190 00:09:15,822 --> 00:09:17,389 That it was drug-related. 191 00:09:17,457 --> 00:09:18,757 ♪ ♪ 192 00:09:18,825 --> 00:09:20,892 - But alan and other friends who knew julio 193 00:09:20,960 --> 00:09:24,729 Weren't buying the drug theory. 194 00:09:24,798 --> 00:09:29,500 - Alan never, never thought this was a drug deal gone bad. 195 00:09:29,502 --> 00:09:31,202 He knew julio well. 196 00:09:31,204 --> 00:09:32,704 So the idea that julio 197 00:09:32,772 --> 00:09:35,439 Was mixed up in that kind of activity 198 00:09:35,441 --> 00:09:36,541 Was just ridiculous. 199 00:09:36,609 --> 00:09:38,476 But what was much more likely 200 00:09:38,545 --> 00:09:39,711 And much more common was 201 00:09:39,779 --> 00:09:42,380 Violence against gay men in that area. 202 00:09:42,448 --> 00:09:46,918 - It was the community who knew that they were being attacked 203 00:09:46,987 --> 00:09:49,521 And that this was not what had happened. 204 00:09:49,589 --> 00:09:51,690 ♪ ♪ 205 00:09:53,059 --> 00:09:54,926 - They just try to slough me off, 206 00:09:54,994 --> 00:09:56,260 But they weren't getting rid of me, 207 00:09:56,329 --> 00:09:58,162 'cause I used to go there twice a week. 208 00:09:58,164 --> 00:10:00,064 - And when they don't respond, 209 00:10:00,133 --> 00:10:01,265 You have to elevate the pressure. 210 00:10:01,334 --> 00:10:03,234 - Lieutenant byrd went undercover. 211 00:10:03,303 --> 00:10:07,005 Pulled up in his own motorcycle and walked in the bar. 212 00:10:07,073 --> 00:10:09,473 You don't want people to know that you're a cop. 213 00:10:09,543 --> 00:10:15,146 - He went out with the intentions of killing somebody. 214 00:10:24,156 --> 00:10:26,824 [tense bassy music] 215 00:10:26,893 --> 00:10:29,360 [tense music] 216 00:10:29,429 --> 00:10:31,462 ♪ ♪ 217 00:10:31,464 --> 00:10:33,864 - The morning after the gruesome assault 218 00:10:33,934 --> 00:10:36,100 That led to the death of julio rivera, 219 00:10:36,102 --> 00:10:39,303 Police in the 115 precinct have no solid leads to go on. 220 00:10:39,305 --> 00:10:41,639 All they have is a toxicology report 221 00:10:41,708 --> 00:10:44,708 And a working theory that drugs may have led to the attack. 222 00:10:44,710 --> 00:10:47,078 ♪ ♪ 223 00:10:47,147 --> 00:10:49,848 - Unfortunately, the police at the 115 precinct 224 00:10:49,916 --> 00:10:51,916 Dug in their heels. 225 00:10:51,985 --> 00:10:53,751 They were like, "no, no, we know what this story is. 226 00:10:53,820 --> 00:10:56,054 "we know this is an area of illicit activity. 227 00:10:56,122 --> 00:10:59,290 We're following what makes the most sense to us." 228 00:10:59,359 --> 00:11:02,026 - But julio's friends are ready to push back. 229 00:11:02,028 --> 00:11:04,028 - I told the detective assigned to the case 230 00:11:04,097 --> 00:11:07,198 That I know that julio, at the age of 29, 231 00:11:07,267 --> 00:11:09,200 Was slaughtered in the schoolyard 232 00:11:09,269 --> 00:11:11,736 Blocks from here 233 00:11:11,805 --> 00:11:16,040 For no other reason except the fact that he was gay. 234 00:11:16,109 --> 00:11:17,408 ♪ ♪ 235 00:11:17,477 --> 00:11:18,943 - Devastated and angry, 236 00:11:19,011 --> 00:11:21,379 Alan reaches out to the only organization in new york 237 00:11:21,448 --> 00:11:23,515 Focusing on anti-gay hate crimes. 238 00:11:23,583 --> 00:11:25,716 Called the anti-violence project, 239 00:11:25,718 --> 00:11:28,119 He reaches matt foreman. 240 00:11:28,188 --> 00:11:28,720 - For many years, 241 00:11:28,788 --> 00:11:30,888 We'd seen wave after wave 242 00:11:30,957 --> 00:11:33,157 Of anti-gay crimes, 243 00:11:33,159 --> 00:11:36,594 And the summer that julio was murdered, 244 00:11:36,662 --> 00:11:38,863 We went for 13 consecutive weeks 245 00:11:38,932 --> 00:11:41,232 Where a gay person or a lesbian person 246 00:11:41,301 --> 00:11:44,202 Was hospitalized as the result 247 00:11:44,270 --> 00:11:46,737 Of an anti-gay or lesbian attack. 248 00:11:46,739 --> 00:11:47,772 [indistinct chatter, whistle blowing] 249 00:11:47,841 --> 00:11:49,540 - New york city in 1990 250 00:11:49,542 --> 00:11:52,310 Was the epicenter of the aids pandemic. 251 00:11:52,378 --> 00:11:54,145 Public fear and ignorance of the disease 252 00:11:54,214 --> 00:11:57,215 Was being turned into hate and violence. 253 00:11:57,283 --> 00:12:01,252 - The aids crisis contributed to anti-gay violence 254 00:12:01,321 --> 00:12:05,156 Because of the demonization of people with aids 255 00:12:05,225 --> 00:12:08,426 By the church and politicians. 256 00:12:08,494 --> 00:12:10,528 "oh, they're causing this deadly disease. 257 00:12:10,597 --> 00:12:12,330 They're disease-spreaders." 258 00:12:12,398 --> 00:12:14,232 [somber music] 259 00:12:14,300 --> 00:12:16,401 - In jackson heights, alan had arranged a meeting 260 00:12:16,469 --> 00:12:19,537 At the popular gay bar, the magic touch, 261 00:12:19,605 --> 00:12:23,908 Led by matt foreman for julio's loved ones. 262 00:12:23,910 --> 00:12:28,746 - Alan sack called me and said, "peggy, 263 00:12:28,814 --> 00:12:31,515 I want you to be a part of this." 264 00:12:31,517 --> 00:12:34,718 Well, that's the first time I met matt foreman. 265 00:12:34,720 --> 00:12:36,720 - Julio's family and friends 266 00:12:36,790 --> 00:12:40,090 Were not used to dealing with hate crime. 267 00:12:40,160 --> 00:12:44,262 This was a murder of a loved one. 268 00:12:44,330 --> 00:12:46,797 But coming from the anti-violence project, 269 00:12:46,867 --> 00:12:51,102 Where you see hate crimes just cascading every weekend, 270 00:12:51,171 --> 00:12:56,240 It was clear to us the murder itself was, 271 00:12:56,242 --> 00:12:58,176 You know, classic case of overkill. 272 00:12:58,244 --> 00:13:01,512 ♪ ♪ 273 00:13:01,581 --> 00:13:04,482 - Matt is told that the police focused on ps 69 274 00:13:04,551 --> 00:13:07,785 As a place to cop drugs, but in jackson heights, 275 00:13:07,854 --> 00:13:10,188 It's also known for something else. 276 00:13:10,256 --> 00:13:14,492 - The block or two around ps 69 was a gay cruising area. 277 00:13:14,560 --> 00:13:16,994 So it was a place where if you want to go out 278 00:13:17,063 --> 00:13:20,564 And beat up a gay person, that's where you go. 279 00:13:20,633 --> 00:13:24,034 Everyone knew that. 280 00:13:24,036 --> 00:13:27,004 The viciousness of the crime and where it occurred 281 00:13:27,073 --> 00:13:30,040 All led to the opposite assumption 282 00:13:30,042 --> 00:13:31,810 Of the police department. 283 00:13:31,878 --> 00:13:33,611 This was a hate crime. 284 00:13:33,679 --> 00:13:35,246 We all came away thinking, 285 00:13:35,315 --> 00:13:37,181 "we've gotta do something here. 286 00:13:37,250 --> 00:13:40,451 We want to focus on justice for julio." 287 00:13:40,520 --> 00:13:42,053 [tense music] 288 00:13:42,055 --> 00:13:43,554 - Over the next several weeks, 289 00:13:43,556 --> 00:13:46,090 Matt and alan went to work on law enforcement. 290 00:13:46,158 --> 00:13:48,960 - We called at the nypd, 291 00:13:49,028 --> 00:13:51,262 Wrote letters to the commanding officer 292 00:13:51,331 --> 00:13:56,134 Of the 115 precinct, and basically got no response. 293 00:13:56,202 --> 00:13:59,203 - Went over to the 115 precinct and said, 294 00:13:59,272 --> 00:14:02,006 "so what kind of progress are you making?" 295 00:14:02,074 --> 00:14:04,608 They just try to slough me off. 296 00:14:04,678 --> 00:14:06,344 But they weren't getting rid of me, 297 00:14:06,412 --> 00:14:09,380 You know, 'cause I used to go there twice a week. 298 00:14:09,449 --> 00:14:12,350 [somber music] 299 00:14:12,352 --> 00:14:15,053 - The case did come to a bit of an investigative lull, 300 00:14:15,055 --> 00:14:17,288 However, by no means closed. 301 00:14:17,357 --> 00:14:19,757 No new leads are being developed, 302 00:14:19,826 --> 00:14:22,460 So the gay community's very frustrated 303 00:14:22,528 --> 00:14:24,528 In regards to this crime. 304 00:14:24,530 --> 00:14:27,731 - With the nypd, when they don't respond, 305 00:14:27,733 --> 00:14:29,400 You have to elevate the pressure. 306 00:14:29,469 --> 00:14:31,602 [tense music] 307 00:14:31,604 --> 00:14:34,572 [siren wailing] 308 00:14:34,641 --> 00:14:37,775 We decided we were gonna have a March in jackson heights. 309 00:14:37,844 --> 00:14:39,310 And we knew that that would be 310 00:14:39,379 --> 00:14:44,081 The first lgbt March in jackson heights. 311 00:14:44,150 --> 00:14:48,285 - Lgbtq people didn't March in queens. 312 00:14:48,354 --> 00:14:49,320 They were afraid of being exposed, 313 00:14:49,389 --> 00:14:53,223 They were afraid of being seen by potential gay-bashers. 314 00:14:53,293 --> 00:14:58,095 - But when it struck home and it was julio, 315 00:14:58,164 --> 00:15:00,932 There were a number of us that said, 316 00:15:01,000 --> 00:15:04,903 "this is it. We've had enough." 317 00:15:04,971 --> 00:15:06,971 [tense music] 318 00:15:07,039 --> 00:15:08,906 - There had been a lot of outreach 319 00:15:08,975 --> 00:15:12,476 To other gay and lesbian groups. 320 00:15:12,478 --> 00:15:15,646 Matt had put out, like, you know, an apb. 321 00:15:15,715 --> 00:15:19,617 "we want you to participate in this demonstration." 322 00:15:19,685 --> 00:15:26,557 ♪ ♪ 323 00:15:26,559 --> 00:15:29,861 - 15 minutes before it's about to start... 324 00:15:29,929 --> 00:15:30,929 And you hear the 7 train 325 00:15:30,997 --> 00:15:34,198 Coming up on the tracks above ground. 326 00:15:34,266 --> 00:15:38,236 You can hear the rumbling underground. 327 00:15:38,304 --> 00:15:43,507 - And all of a sudden, the train comes in... 328 00:15:43,576 --> 00:15:46,010 And hordes of people 329 00:15:46,012 --> 00:15:49,480 Are pouring out of this train station. 330 00:15:49,548 --> 00:15:51,115 [uplifting music] 331 00:15:51,184 --> 00:15:55,519 - This sea of gay men and lesbians. 332 00:15:55,521 --> 00:15:58,689 And there's, like, hundreds and hundreds of people 333 00:15:58,758 --> 00:16:01,358 That never met julio, 334 00:16:01,427 --> 00:16:03,727 That never heard the name julio rivera. 335 00:16:03,729 --> 00:16:06,730 ♪ ♪ 336 00:16:06,799 --> 00:16:10,167 - Alan and matt are breathing this sigh of relief 337 00:16:10,236 --> 00:16:14,138 That we really do have strength in numbers. 338 00:16:14,206 --> 00:16:15,873 They showed up. 339 00:16:15,942 --> 00:16:20,011 All: No more violence! No more violence! 340 00:16:20,079 --> 00:16:21,345 - It was the outrage over 341 00:16:21,414 --> 00:16:23,180 A murder of someone in your community. 342 00:16:23,249 --> 00:16:25,016 ♪ ♪ 343 00:16:25,084 --> 00:16:29,853 - An attack against one of us is an attack against all of us. 344 00:16:29,855 --> 00:16:31,655 - The site of the spot 345 00:16:31,724 --> 00:16:36,827 Where julio rivera had his life stolen away from him. 346 00:16:36,829 --> 00:16:39,263 The strategy behind doing the March was 347 00:16:39,332 --> 00:16:42,666 Increase pressure on the police department 348 00:16:42,735 --> 00:16:45,336 And raise greater awareness in jackson heights 349 00:16:45,405 --> 00:16:47,538 To find out if there were any witnesses, 350 00:16:47,607 --> 00:16:48,873 If anyone knew anything. 351 00:16:48,941 --> 00:16:50,774 All: No more violence! 352 00:16:50,844 --> 00:16:52,510 - After the vigil, 353 00:16:52,578 --> 00:16:55,012 Then people really started to get more and more involved. 354 00:16:55,080 --> 00:16:58,682 All: No more violence! No more violence! 355 00:16:58,684 --> 00:17:00,651 ♪ ♪ 356 00:17:00,720 --> 00:17:03,621 [tense music] 357 00:17:03,689 --> 00:17:05,489 - But even with the jackson heights community 358 00:17:05,491 --> 00:17:07,959 Now fully engaged, two more months pass 359 00:17:08,027 --> 00:17:10,227 With no new movement on the case, 360 00:17:10,296 --> 00:17:11,562 So they brought their anger 361 00:17:11,631 --> 00:17:14,966 To the doorstep of the mayor of new york, david dinkins. 362 00:17:15,034 --> 00:17:17,868 [whistling and clapping] 363 00:17:17,870 --> 00:17:19,236 ♪ ♪ 364 00:17:19,305 --> 00:17:21,639 - We want to take the case directly to the mayor. 365 00:17:21,707 --> 00:17:22,440 Because ultimately, 366 00:17:22,508 --> 00:17:23,907 He's in charge of the police department. 367 00:17:23,909 --> 00:17:25,376 - We stormed gracie mansion. 368 00:17:25,445 --> 00:17:27,878 All: David dinkins, don't you know? 369 00:17:27,880 --> 00:17:29,981 Homophobe killed julio! 370 00:17:30,049 --> 00:17:31,582 David dinkins, don't you know? 371 00:17:31,651 --> 00:17:34,652 - And there are about 300 of us. 372 00:17:34,720 --> 00:17:38,021 There was red paint, signifying blood. 373 00:17:38,023 --> 00:17:40,691 And so take signs, you know? 374 00:17:40,760 --> 00:17:42,393 [tense music] 375 00:17:42,462 --> 00:17:46,764 "100 days have already passed. Who killed julio rivera?" 376 00:17:46,832 --> 00:17:50,101 [all chanting] 377 00:17:50,169 --> 00:17:51,502 ♪ ♪ 378 00:17:51,571 --> 00:17:52,770 - Mayor dinkins was finally aware 379 00:17:52,838 --> 00:17:57,175 Of the fever pitch outrage over the case of julio rivera. 380 00:18:01,747 --> 00:18:05,282 ♪ ♪ 381 00:18:05,351 --> 00:18:07,484 - Once the gay community made its point 382 00:18:07,553 --> 00:18:12,056 And really managed to put pressure and build awareness, 383 00:18:12,124 --> 00:18:14,057 The police started to respond, finally. 384 00:18:14,127 --> 00:18:15,759 [dramatic music] 385 00:18:15,828 --> 00:18:18,528 - The tireless work of the activists paid off, 386 00:18:18,530 --> 00:18:19,863 And now at the direction of the mayor, 387 00:18:19,933 --> 00:18:22,766 The queens da's office and their best lieutenant, 388 00:18:22,835 --> 00:18:26,303 George byrd, is assigned to take a fresh look at the case. 389 00:18:26,372 --> 00:18:29,306 - When I get an investigation, I start from the bottom 390 00:18:29,375 --> 00:18:30,974 As if it was a cold case. 391 00:18:30,976 --> 00:18:31,975 I'm like a pit bull. 392 00:18:31,977 --> 00:18:33,977 I get on a case, I don't let go. 393 00:18:33,979 --> 00:18:36,314 ♪ ♪ 394 00:18:38,284 --> 00:18:40,084 - Finally, a witness came forward. 395 00:18:40,152 --> 00:18:43,354 - The eyewitness saw three people fleeing the location, 396 00:18:43,422 --> 00:18:45,589 Two of them being skinheads. 397 00:18:45,658 --> 00:18:47,190 - If you're in a gay community 398 00:18:47,192 --> 00:18:49,360 And you see skinheads in your area, 399 00:18:49,428 --> 00:18:50,628 You know it's trouble. 400 00:18:50,696 --> 00:18:52,130 ♪ ♪ 401 00:19:00,405 --> 00:19:02,940 [tense bassy music] 402 00:19:03,008 --> 00:19:06,076 [suspenseful music] 403 00:19:06,078 --> 00:19:07,145 ♪ ♪ 404 00:19:07,213 --> 00:19:08,546 - After public outrage 405 00:19:08,614 --> 00:19:10,047 And pressure on the mayor of new york, 406 00:19:10,116 --> 00:19:11,181 The queens district attorney 407 00:19:11,251 --> 00:19:13,184 Has directed lieutenant george byrd 408 00:19:13,252 --> 00:19:15,018 To throw everything he's got 409 00:19:15,020 --> 00:19:17,221 Into finding out who killed julio rivera. 410 00:19:17,290 --> 00:19:22,793 ♪ ♪ 411 00:19:22,862 --> 00:19:26,497 - Once we got to the district attorney's office, 412 00:19:26,565 --> 00:19:31,102 Lieutenant george byrd went after this case 413 00:19:31,170 --> 00:19:33,270 With unrelentless pursuit. 414 00:19:33,339 --> 00:19:35,306 ♪ ♪ 415 00:19:35,374 --> 00:19:36,740 - When I got involved in this particular case, 416 00:19:36,809 --> 00:19:39,477 I reached out to the gay community 417 00:19:39,545 --> 00:19:44,214 And also the area in which this crime took place. 418 00:19:44,284 --> 00:19:46,650 I was able to talk to them in such a way 419 00:19:46,719 --> 00:19:48,752 That they were comfortable enough 420 00:19:48,821 --> 00:19:53,957 And they would trust me, okay, to do the right thing. 421 00:19:53,959 --> 00:19:55,659 And because of that, 422 00:19:55,728 --> 00:19:58,829 Information started to flow in my direction. 423 00:19:58,898 --> 00:20:00,965 Changed the whole case. 424 00:20:01,033 --> 00:20:03,768 [tense music] 425 00:20:03,836 --> 00:20:06,470 - After nearly five months since julio's murder, 426 00:20:06,472 --> 00:20:09,139 They get the break they've been hoping for. 427 00:20:09,208 --> 00:20:10,841 - We needed witnesses. 428 00:20:10,910 --> 00:20:13,211 And finally, a witness came forward. 429 00:20:13,279 --> 00:20:15,746 The gay community pushed them forward to come in. 430 00:20:15,815 --> 00:20:17,215 ♪ ♪ 431 00:20:17,283 --> 00:20:20,584 - A gentleman by the name of tony aris 432 00:20:20,653 --> 00:20:25,589 Who happens to be a gay male prostitute, 433 00:20:25,591 --> 00:20:27,758 He provides some key details, 434 00:20:27,827 --> 00:20:30,561 Which is very helpful to investigators. 435 00:20:30,629 --> 00:20:32,830 ♪ ♪ 436 00:20:32,898 --> 00:20:36,533 - Tony explained to me that the night of the incident, 437 00:20:36,602 --> 00:20:39,837 Tony was working that night, the cruising area. 438 00:20:39,905 --> 00:20:45,642 Men would come in in cars. He'd get picked up. 439 00:20:45,711 --> 00:20:48,245 They would have their transaction in the vehicle, 440 00:20:48,314 --> 00:20:50,214 And tony would get right back in the street. 441 00:20:50,282 --> 00:20:52,349 ♪ ♪ 442 00:20:52,418 --> 00:20:53,917 - Tony tells lieutenant byrd 443 00:20:53,986 --> 00:20:56,653 At approximately 2:00 a.M. On July 3rd, 444 00:20:56,722 --> 00:20:59,957 He noticed julio rivera at ps 69. 445 00:21:00,025 --> 00:21:02,793 ♪ ♪ 446 00:21:02,862 --> 00:21:06,263 - He saw julio rivera go back to this alcove... 447 00:21:06,331 --> 00:21:08,699 ♪ ♪ 448 00:21:08,768 --> 00:21:13,203 Where he was approached by one individual. 449 00:21:13,272 --> 00:21:16,940 And this individual had long hair. 450 00:21:17,009 --> 00:21:19,943 - Tony's attention turns to another trick. 451 00:21:20,012 --> 00:21:22,613 15 minutes pass and he's back. 452 00:21:22,681 --> 00:21:24,215 - He just finished with a client, 453 00:21:24,283 --> 00:21:27,951 And now, he sees three males 454 00:21:28,020 --> 00:21:30,554 Leave this alcove, running. 455 00:21:30,623 --> 00:21:32,790 Two of them were skinheads. 456 00:21:32,858 --> 00:21:37,361 Two of them were wearing doc marten boots. 457 00:21:37,429 --> 00:21:39,496 One had a tattoo, 458 00:21:39,565 --> 00:21:42,966 A double-headed eagle on his arm. 459 00:21:43,035 --> 00:21:45,336 The one with the longer hair was the individual 460 00:21:45,404 --> 00:21:47,971 He saw talking to julio. 461 00:21:48,040 --> 00:21:49,706 ♪ ♪ 462 00:21:49,775 --> 00:21:53,177 One was carrying a hammer and one was carrying a wrench. 463 00:21:53,245 --> 00:21:55,546 ♪ ♪ 464 00:21:55,614 --> 00:21:58,582 These were weapons that match the wounds on the deceased 465 00:21:58,584 --> 00:22:00,817 Based on the autopsy report. 466 00:22:00,819 --> 00:22:01,985 ♪ ♪ 467 00:22:02,054 --> 00:22:05,088 - Armed with this new, vital intel on potential suspects, 468 00:22:05,090 --> 00:22:07,224 Police are eager to canvas jackson heights 469 00:22:07,293 --> 00:22:11,662 For any leads on known skinhead gangs in the area. 470 00:22:11,731 --> 00:22:14,331 - There was word in the street 471 00:22:14,399 --> 00:22:18,301 That there was a group of skinheads 472 00:22:18,303 --> 00:22:19,870 Who were trying to establish 473 00:22:19,939 --> 00:22:23,006 A form of control in jackson heights, 474 00:22:23,075 --> 00:22:25,342 And they were known as dms. 475 00:22:25,411 --> 00:22:27,678 Doc martens skinheads or death machine skinheads. 476 00:22:27,747 --> 00:22:29,780 Never heard of 'em, didn't know anything about 'em. 477 00:22:29,849 --> 00:22:34,518 ♪ ♪ 478 00:22:34,520 --> 00:22:37,888 - Dms was not on the nypd gang unit's radar, 479 00:22:37,957 --> 00:22:41,191 But when they search for signs of them in jackson heights, 480 00:22:41,260 --> 00:22:43,260 They find them. 481 00:22:43,262 --> 00:22:44,695 - You would see tags 482 00:22:44,763 --> 00:22:48,365 On buildings, on fences, on schools. 483 00:22:48,434 --> 00:22:51,869 Dms, dms, dms. 484 00:22:51,937 --> 00:22:55,706 ♪ ♪ 485 00:22:55,774 --> 00:22:58,041 - Doc martens skinheads have marked their territory, 486 00:22:58,110 --> 00:23:01,445 And lieutenant byrd wants to meet them face-to-face. 487 00:23:01,513 --> 00:23:03,046 ♪ ♪ 488 00:23:03,115 --> 00:23:06,850 - Detectives learn that dms, 489 00:23:06,852 --> 00:23:08,218 That hangs out in jackson heights 490 00:23:08,287 --> 00:23:09,686 Sections of queens, 491 00:23:09,755 --> 00:23:10,988 And frequent an establishment 492 00:23:11,056 --> 00:23:14,157 Or a bar in queens known as kennedy bar. 493 00:23:14,159 --> 00:23:15,492 - So in order for me 494 00:23:15,494 --> 00:23:17,294 To find out what this was all about, 495 00:23:17,363 --> 00:23:20,063 How could I get in there? 496 00:23:20,132 --> 00:23:21,665 [suspenseful music] 497 00:23:21,667 --> 00:23:24,168 - Lieutenant george byrd decides 498 00:23:24,236 --> 00:23:27,471 He is going to go undercover within kennedy's bar. 499 00:23:27,539 --> 00:23:28,906 [whistling and chatter] 500 00:23:28,974 --> 00:23:32,976 - At kennedy's, everyone knows who comes in or out. 501 00:23:33,045 --> 00:23:36,813 Dms has staked its claim here, and going in undercover 502 00:23:36,882 --> 00:23:39,750 Could mean putting his life on the line. 503 00:23:39,818 --> 00:23:42,553 - I have a harley-davidson. 504 00:23:42,621 --> 00:23:44,688 When you pull up to a place on a motorcycle 505 00:23:44,690 --> 00:23:46,189 Wearing a jean jacket... 506 00:23:46,191 --> 00:23:49,092 ♪ ♪ 507 00:23:49,094 --> 00:23:50,761 Park it right in front of the place, 508 00:23:50,829 --> 00:23:55,265 Get off the bike, throw your helmet down on the ground... 509 00:23:55,334 --> 00:23:57,435 Walk in the door, everybody loves you. 510 00:23:57,503 --> 00:24:01,338 ♪ ♪ 511 00:24:01,406 --> 00:24:02,840 And that's what I did. 512 00:24:02,908 --> 00:24:05,108 ♪ ♪ 513 00:24:05,177 --> 00:24:06,643 [indistinct chatter] 514 00:24:06,712 --> 00:24:09,046 - Lieutenant byrd settles in at the bar 515 00:24:09,114 --> 00:24:10,181 And keeps his ears open. 516 00:24:10,249 --> 00:24:12,215 ♪ ♪ 517 00:24:12,217 --> 00:24:15,452 He spies a man with a tough, skinhead look 518 00:24:15,521 --> 00:24:18,455 And casually starts a conversation. 519 00:24:18,524 --> 00:24:21,458 - An individual by the name of army dan, 520 00:24:21,527 --> 00:24:24,628 Who was dressed in army-type clothes, 521 00:24:24,630 --> 00:24:29,466 He was a skinhead, a part of the dms scene. 522 00:24:29,535 --> 00:24:33,303 I was trying to ascertain from him what he knew 523 00:24:33,372 --> 00:24:35,939 Just in casual conversation. 524 00:24:36,008 --> 00:24:37,675 If I would've identified myself, 525 00:24:37,677 --> 00:24:38,809 The walls would've gone up 526 00:24:38,877 --> 00:24:41,044 And the information would've stopped. 527 00:24:41,113 --> 00:24:43,947 - After a few drinks, army dan starts talking 528 00:24:44,016 --> 00:24:46,349 And the case finally breaks open. 529 00:24:46,419 --> 00:24:50,421 - Army dan tells him he may have some information 530 00:24:50,489 --> 00:24:52,389 About the rivera homicide. 531 00:24:52,457 --> 00:24:53,824 [dramatic music] 532 00:24:53,893 --> 00:24:56,860 - And he was very free with information. 533 00:24:56,929 --> 00:25:00,831 ♪ ♪ 534 00:25:10,041 --> 00:25:12,843 [tense music] 535 00:25:12,912 --> 00:25:15,579 [dramatic music] 536 00:25:15,648 --> 00:25:17,047 ♪ ♪ 537 00:25:17,116 --> 00:25:18,782 - Working undercover, lieutenant byrd 538 00:25:18,784 --> 00:25:21,785 Has dms member, army dan, right where he wants him. 539 00:25:21,854 --> 00:25:23,921 [suspenseful music] 540 00:25:23,989 --> 00:25:26,389 - Army dan was a great informant to me 541 00:25:26,459 --> 00:25:28,591 Because he was giving me all the, 542 00:25:28,593 --> 00:25:31,328 You know, workings of dms. 543 00:25:31,396 --> 00:25:33,531 I found out that dms 544 00:25:33,599 --> 00:25:36,066 Was made up of different ethnic groups, 545 00:25:36,135 --> 00:25:39,202 So it wasn't like a white supremacist group. 546 00:25:39,204 --> 00:25:40,937 That wasn't the case. 547 00:25:40,939 --> 00:25:45,042 Dms was established as trying to keep jackson heights 548 00:25:45,110 --> 00:25:48,279 A certain type of place. 549 00:25:48,347 --> 00:25:53,750 They did not want this influx of gay people coming in. 550 00:25:53,819 --> 00:25:55,952 They're kind of bragging about 551 00:25:56,021 --> 00:25:57,754 This individual who was murdered 552 00:25:57,823 --> 00:26:00,157 Or killed in jackson heights. 553 00:26:00,225 --> 00:26:03,193 [ominous music] 554 00:26:03,262 --> 00:26:05,295 - Lieutenant byrd has heard enough. 555 00:26:05,364 --> 00:26:06,930 The following day, 556 00:26:06,999 --> 00:26:09,033 Army dan is brought into the station house for questioning. 557 00:26:09,101 --> 00:26:12,503 He is told he is a suspect in the murder of julio rivera, 558 00:26:12,571 --> 00:26:15,038 So he better talk. 559 00:26:15,040 --> 00:26:17,440 - Army dan's questioned extensively, 560 00:26:17,510 --> 00:26:19,510 And denies any knowledge of the crime. 561 00:26:19,578 --> 00:26:20,711 They continue to press him, 562 00:26:20,779 --> 00:26:23,113 Continue to go at him a little bit, 563 00:26:23,182 --> 00:26:24,781 And finally, he says 564 00:26:24,850 --> 00:26:27,650 That the crime was committed 565 00:26:27,652 --> 00:26:31,922 By three particular individuals, dms members, 566 00:26:31,990 --> 00:26:35,526 And he discloses the identity of those individuals as 567 00:26:35,594 --> 00:26:41,464 Esat bici, as dan doyle, and erik brown. 568 00:26:41,534 --> 00:26:43,032 The eyewitness saw 569 00:26:43,034 --> 00:26:45,502 Three people fleeing the location. 570 00:26:45,504 --> 00:26:48,772 - Army dan tells me that there was a party that took place 571 00:26:48,774 --> 00:26:50,941 The night julio was found murdered 572 00:26:51,010 --> 00:26:55,178 At an individual's house by the name of danny doyle. 573 00:26:55,247 --> 00:26:57,648 [tense music] 574 00:26:57,716 --> 00:27:00,951 So danny doyle was there and erik brown, 575 00:27:01,020 --> 00:27:05,188 And esat bici-- they called esat "ed." 576 00:27:05,257 --> 00:27:08,158 They drank and they were there for a period of time. 577 00:27:08,227 --> 00:27:09,692 ♪ ♪ 578 00:27:09,694 --> 00:27:12,229 Toward the end of the party, 579 00:27:12,297 --> 00:27:16,166 Now it's, "let's go out, let's go do something for dms." 580 00:27:16,235 --> 00:27:20,703 ♪ ♪ 581 00:27:20,705 --> 00:27:22,973 - Army dan says that's all he remembers. 582 00:27:23,041 --> 00:27:24,841 Detectives release him 583 00:27:24,910 --> 00:27:27,811 And turn a laser focus on these new suspects. 584 00:27:27,879 --> 00:27:29,713 - Investigators decide they're gonna bring in 585 00:27:29,781 --> 00:27:34,985 Esat "ed" bici, dan doyle, and erik brown. 586 00:27:35,054 --> 00:27:38,655 - All three suspects are known locals and were easy to find, 587 00:27:38,724 --> 00:27:40,491 But when they are brought in for questioning, 588 00:27:40,559 --> 00:27:44,128 All three have suspiciously changed their appearance. 589 00:27:44,196 --> 00:27:47,197 - Esat bici has grown out his hair. 590 00:27:47,266 --> 00:27:48,799 Dan doyle as well. 591 00:27:48,867 --> 00:27:51,868 Erik brown, who was described as having longer hair, 592 00:27:51,937 --> 00:27:54,071 Has sort of cut his hair, 593 00:27:54,139 --> 00:27:56,473 Trimmed it down, and dyed it another color. 594 00:27:56,541 --> 00:27:58,441 - They didn't want to be out in jackson heights 595 00:27:58,511 --> 00:28:00,277 Looking like they did. 596 00:28:00,345 --> 00:28:03,746 - Erik brown was a bright kid. College student. 597 00:28:03,748 --> 00:28:08,752 20-year-old daniel doyle was the son of an nypd detective. 598 00:28:08,821 --> 00:28:13,290 - 18-year-old esat bici is of albanian descent, 599 00:28:13,358 --> 00:28:16,226 Fully embraced the skinhead movement. 600 00:28:16,295 --> 00:28:21,832 Esat bici also has a large, double-headed eagle tattoo, 601 00:28:21,900 --> 00:28:25,635 Albanian-style flag tattooed on his arm. 602 00:28:25,637 --> 00:28:27,771 ♪ ♪ 603 00:28:27,840 --> 00:28:29,339 - This tattoo matches 604 00:28:29,408 --> 00:28:32,242 The eyewitness description perfectly. 605 00:28:32,311 --> 00:28:35,178 Detectives are sure they got the right guys, 606 00:28:35,247 --> 00:28:37,113 But when they interview each separately, 607 00:28:37,182 --> 00:28:39,917 They're all in lockstep with their answers. 608 00:28:39,919 --> 00:28:42,252 - All three individuals deny any knowledge 609 00:28:42,321 --> 00:28:46,123 Of having any affiliation or any part of any role 610 00:28:46,191 --> 00:28:49,993 In the julio rivera homicide, and at that point, 611 00:28:49,995 --> 00:28:52,295 Disclosed nothing else. 612 00:28:52,364 --> 00:28:54,331 - With no hard evidence to keep them, 613 00:28:54,399 --> 00:28:56,633 All police could do was treat them as suspects, 614 00:28:56,701 --> 00:29:00,471 Get their mugshots and prints, and let them go. 615 00:29:00,539 --> 00:29:04,508 ♪ ♪ 616 00:29:04,576 --> 00:29:05,942 - Enough time had passed by 617 00:29:06,011 --> 00:29:09,312 That they felt like, "we got it made." 618 00:29:09,381 --> 00:29:12,282 You know, "no one's really gonna make a case against us. 619 00:29:12,351 --> 00:29:15,518 They don't have any evidence. They don't have anything." 620 00:29:15,588 --> 00:29:18,722 - But our attitude was we're not gonna make it that easy. 621 00:29:18,791 --> 00:29:23,026 We go back to our eyewitness at the crime scene, tony aris. 622 00:29:23,028 --> 00:29:26,697 - In order to get an id, 623 00:29:26,765 --> 00:29:29,632 I did a photo array. 624 00:29:29,634 --> 00:29:33,604 And the photo array's made up of six photos. 625 00:29:33,672 --> 00:29:35,772 Esat bici in one of them, 626 00:29:35,840 --> 00:29:38,208 Danny doyle in another one, 627 00:29:38,277 --> 00:29:40,743 And erik brown in the other one. 628 00:29:40,745 --> 00:29:45,882 ♪ ♪ 629 00:29:45,951 --> 00:29:48,919 Tony aris picked out all three. 630 00:29:48,987 --> 00:29:51,187 - Lieutenant byrd now has two witnesses 631 00:29:51,256 --> 00:29:53,690 Who have given him positive ids on the alleged killers, 632 00:29:53,758 --> 00:29:57,860 But if the case goes to trial, he knows he needs more. 633 00:29:57,862 --> 00:29:59,096 - If you're prosecuting a case, 634 00:29:59,164 --> 00:30:04,467 You need to have enough evidence to win your case. 635 00:30:04,469 --> 00:30:07,805 I had what I had, but I didn't have enough. 636 00:30:07,873 --> 00:30:09,472 - He wanted a confession, 637 00:30:09,474 --> 00:30:11,208 But as soon as they were told they were suspects, 638 00:30:11,276 --> 00:30:14,745 Esat bici and erik brown had lawyered up. 639 00:30:14,813 --> 00:30:18,949 Danny doyle was his only hope. 640 00:30:19,017 --> 00:30:22,085 - Danny doyle's father was retired law enforcement. 641 00:30:22,087 --> 00:30:23,886 I laid the cards on the table. 642 00:30:23,888 --> 00:30:26,089 I said to him, "look." 643 00:30:26,158 --> 00:30:27,223 Either danny doyle was gonna 644 00:30:27,292 --> 00:30:29,626 Take the fall for this by himself 645 00:30:29,694 --> 00:30:31,094 Or he was going to work out 646 00:30:31,096 --> 00:30:32,895 Some type of cooperation agreement 647 00:30:32,897 --> 00:30:34,631 With the da's office. 648 00:30:34,699 --> 00:30:39,369 What would be the best outcome for your son? 649 00:30:39,438 --> 00:30:41,304 And at that point in time, 650 00:30:41,306 --> 00:30:43,974 Danny doyle became available for me to interview. 651 00:30:44,042 --> 00:30:48,111 ♪ ♪ 652 00:31:01,826 --> 00:31:03,727 [dramatic music] 653 00:31:03,795 --> 00:31:05,696 ♪ ♪ 654 00:31:15,106 --> 00:31:17,607 [tense bassy music] 655 00:31:17,676 --> 00:31:21,178 [sirens wailing] 656 00:31:21,246 --> 00:31:24,247 - Detectives have three positively id'd suspects 657 00:31:24,316 --> 00:31:26,015 In the murder of julio rivera, 658 00:31:26,085 --> 00:31:29,185 And the queens da's office and lieutenant byrd 659 00:31:29,187 --> 00:31:32,021 Are doing everything they can to lock in their case. 660 00:31:32,091 --> 00:31:35,092 Danny doyle is the key that they need. 661 00:31:36,294 --> 00:31:39,095 - Okay, now mr. Doyle, I understand that 662 00:31:39,164 --> 00:31:42,765 You have a statement to make to us this morning. 663 00:31:42,835 --> 00:31:44,034 - Yes. 664 00:31:44,102 --> 00:31:45,468 - Danny doyle took me through 665 00:31:45,537 --> 00:31:48,238 Every step of the night of the party. 666 00:31:48,307 --> 00:31:50,106 ♪ ♪ 667 00:31:50,542 --> 00:31:53,043 - On the night of July 1st, 668 00:31:53,111 --> 00:31:56,046 I had an informal gathering at my house. 669 00:31:56,114 --> 00:31:58,448 People that I know. 670 00:31:58,450 --> 00:32:01,584 After the party had disassembled, 671 00:32:01,586 --> 00:32:05,588 I was left at the house with two of my guests. 672 00:32:05,590 --> 00:32:09,259 Myself, erik brown, and ed. 673 00:32:09,327 --> 00:32:11,294 - Before they leave, danny goes over, 674 00:32:11,363 --> 00:32:15,899 Opens his father's toolbox, comes out with a claw hammer, 675 00:32:15,967 --> 00:32:18,067 Comes out with a pipe wrench, 676 00:32:18,069 --> 00:32:20,737 And somewhere, this little knife, 677 00:32:20,806 --> 00:32:23,140 Thin-bladed knife. 678 00:32:23,208 --> 00:32:26,209 He issues the weapons out. 679 00:32:26,278 --> 00:32:30,613 - We ended up going to 34th avenue 680 00:32:30,615 --> 00:32:33,083 Somewhere in the mid-70s. 681 00:32:33,151 --> 00:32:35,885 - Why would you be taking weapons? 682 00:32:35,954 --> 00:32:37,754 Why would you be carrying these things 683 00:32:37,823 --> 00:32:39,989 If you were just gonna go out skipping along the highway? 684 00:32:39,991 --> 00:32:42,358 ♪ ♪ 685 00:32:42,427 --> 00:32:45,896 They had bad intentions when they left the house. 686 00:32:45,964 --> 00:32:49,967 So basically, it was a hunting party. 687 00:32:50,035 --> 00:32:52,903 - Approximately 10:00 to 2:00 that morning, 688 00:32:52,971 --> 00:32:56,839 We then proceeded towards ps 69, 689 00:32:56,909 --> 00:33:01,177 Which is on 37th avenue and 78th street. 690 00:33:01,246 --> 00:33:04,981 - Ps 69, known cruising area, drug location, 691 00:33:05,049 --> 00:33:07,116 And what do they see? 692 00:33:07,186 --> 00:33:10,420 Julio standing there. 693 00:33:10,489 --> 00:33:13,189 And danny doyle tells erik brown 694 00:33:13,258 --> 00:33:16,960 To go up to that guy and tell him, "sex for drugs." 695 00:33:17,028 --> 00:33:18,895 ♪ ♪ 696 00:33:18,963 --> 00:33:22,232 They walk around to the alcove. 697 00:33:22,300 --> 00:33:24,801 The other two come up out of the darkness 698 00:33:24,869 --> 00:33:29,172 And now, they approach julio. 699 00:33:29,174 --> 00:33:32,842 Bici hits him over the head with a beer bottle. 700 00:33:32,911 --> 00:33:36,146 ♪ ♪ 701 00:33:36,214 --> 00:33:38,048 The assault starts. 702 00:33:38,116 --> 00:33:41,484 - What was the first thing that you did? 703 00:33:41,486 --> 00:33:43,854 - I hit the guy with my fist. 704 00:33:43,922 --> 00:33:47,090 ♪ ♪ 705 00:33:47,159 --> 00:33:52,028 And I saw ed pull a carpenter's hammer 706 00:33:52,096 --> 00:33:54,431 From his lower back. 707 00:33:54,499 --> 00:33:55,865 ♪ ♪ 708 00:33:55,934 --> 00:33:58,167 - What type of hammer was it? 709 00:33:58,237 --> 00:34:03,773 - Clawed on one side and blunt on the other. 710 00:34:03,842 --> 00:34:06,909 So ed's swinging the hammer. 711 00:34:06,979 --> 00:34:09,546 ♪ ♪ 712 00:34:09,614 --> 00:34:13,149 At this point, the gentleman was... 713 00:34:13,151 --> 00:34:15,118 Was crouched over. 714 00:34:15,187 --> 00:34:19,255 And he was standing, but he was bent over. 715 00:34:19,257 --> 00:34:24,727 And ed started bludgeoning him with the hammer again. 716 00:34:24,796 --> 00:34:26,896 ♪ ♪ 717 00:34:26,965 --> 00:34:31,033 - How hard ed was hitting 718 00:34:31,035 --> 00:34:33,936 This gentleman with the hammer? 719 00:34:34,006 --> 00:34:35,505 - With full force. 720 00:34:35,574 --> 00:34:37,674 - And when you say with full force, 721 00:34:37,742 --> 00:34:39,609 What do you mean by that? 722 00:34:39,678 --> 00:34:41,678 - As hard as he could. 723 00:34:41,746 --> 00:34:45,281 ♪ ♪ 724 00:34:45,283 --> 00:34:49,151 Erik pulled from his pant leg 725 00:34:49,153 --> 00:34:51,421 A plumber's wrench. 726 00:34:51,489 --> 00:34:53,523 ♪ ♪ 727 00:34:53,592 --> 00:34:55,358 And at that point, 728 00:34:55,426 --> 00:34:59,229 He swung it up and the guy was bent over 729 00:34:59,297 --> 00:35:01,964 And it hit him somewhere in the facial area. 730 00:35:02,034 --> 00:35:05,735 And he was swinging it 731 00:35:05,804 --> 00:35:09,439 As hard and as fast as he could, it seemed to me. 732 00:35:09,508 --> 00:35:10,373 Vigorously. 733 00:35:10,442 --> 00:35:12,609 - And what did you do with the knife? 734 00:35:12,677 --> 00:35:16,379 - I took the knife and I 735 00:35:16,381 --> 00:35:21,551 Swung it down and it entered the guy's back. 736 00:35:21,620 --> 00:35:27,056 - Danny doyle was the one who caused the final death blow. 737 00:35:27,125 --> 00:35:28,825 ♪ ♪ 738 00:35:28,894 --> 00:35:31,228 It was that one stab wound. 739 00:35:31,296 --> 00:35:33,029 It basically punctured his lung. 740 00:35:33,097 --> 00:35:34,797 ♪ ♪ 741 00:35:34,866 --> 00:35:39,268 - The puncture caused him to bleed internally. 742 00:35:39,338 --> 00:35:42,705 He was basically drowning in his own blood. 743 00:35:42,774 --> 00:35:48,378 ♪ ♪ 744 00:35:48,446 --> 00:35:49,812 - Danny doyle had admitted to murder 745 00:35:49,881 --> 00:35:52,115 On tape and was arrested, 746 00:35:52,183 --> 00:35:55,017 But what danny wouldn't admit to in his first statement 747 00:35:55,087 --> 00:35:57,787 Is why they targeted julio. 748 00:35:57,789 --> 00:36:01,390 The da's office wanted a clear motive. 749 00:36:01,460 --> 00:36:05,495 - When you look at intent-- now again, my job, intent. 750 00:36:05,564 --> 00:36:08,965 I've got to present this to a da 751 00:36:09,034 --> 00:36:10,667 And they gotta present it to a jury. 752 00:36:10,735 --> 00:36:14,171 Who had the most intent to hurt this person? 753 00:36:14,239 --> 00:36:17,173 - Lieutenant byrd keeps danny talking 754 00:36:17,242 --> 00:36:19,375 And safe until the trial. 755 00:36:19,444 --> 00:36:21,478 As a cop's kid with a violent temper, 756 00:36:21,546 --> 00:36:25,047 Byrd knew his days could be numbered at riker's island. 757 00:36:25,049 --> 00:36:28,451 - But I had to take danny doyle out of a facility 758 00:36:28,519 --> 00:36:32,588 Every day for his own protection. 759 00:36:32,657 --> 00:36:36,459 So I had him and the whole time I had him, 760 00:36:36,461 --> 00:36:39,662 I'm getting information. It's nonstop. 761 00:36:39,731 --> 00:36:43,499 He told me that there was hatred, 762 00:36:43,501 --> 00:36:44,767 Hatred for the gay community. 763 00:36:44,836 --> 00:36:47,203 They didn't want to see this in their community. 764 00:36:47,272 --> 00:36:49,472 So what do you do? 765 00:36:49,540 --> 00:36:51,808 "let's exterminate 'em, let's get 'em out of here." 766 00:36:51,876 --> 00:36:53,643 ♪ ♪ 767 00:36:53,712 --> 00:36:56,446 There was no doubt about it in my mind it was a hate crime. 768 00:36:56,514 --> 00:37:00,917 And so with that, we put that in his case 769 00:37:00,986 --> 00:37:02,953 That this was a hate crime. 770 00:37:03,021 --> 00:37:06,289 - The da's office offers danny doyle a plea deal-- 771 00:37:06,358 --> 00:37:07,890 Manslaughter and a shorter sentence 772 00:37:07,892 --> 00:37:09,892 In exchange for his full testimony, 773 00:37:09,961 --> 00:37:12,428 Which includes testifying against esat and erik 774 00:37:12,497 --> 00:37:14,196 In front of a jury. 775 00:37:14,266 --> 00:37:17,099 Dan doyle takes the plea. 776 00:37:17,169 --> 00:37:19,469 [siren wailing] 777 00:37:19,537 --> 00:37:21,104 - Now at that particular time, 778 00:37:21,106 --> 00:37:25,442 Hate crimes being described in the gay community 779 00:37:25,510 --> 00:37:28,044 Really wasn't something widely talked about, 780 00:37:28,112 --> 00:37:29,579 If ever talked about. 781 00:37:29,648 --> 00:37:30,780 ♪ ♪ 782 00:37:30,782 --> 00:37:32,649 - No one in the state of new york had ever 783 00:37:32,717 --> 00:37:36,853 Been tried and convicted of an anti-gay hate crime. 784 00:37:36,921 --> 00:37:40,589 The stakes for this historical trial could not be higher. 785 00:37:40,659 --> 00:37:46,296 - Going into the trial, we were concerned. 786 00:37:46,364 --> 00:37:48,397 There was always the possibility 787 00:37:48,467 --> 00:37:50,033 That something could go wrong. 788 00:37:50,101 --> 00:37:54,638 ♪ ♪ 789 00:38:03,947 --> 00:38:06,816 [tense bassy music] 790 00:38:06,885 --> 00:38:09,886 [suspenseful music] 791 00:38:09,954 --> 00:38:12,154 - On November 3rd, 1991, 792 00:38:12,224 --> 00:38:14,758 The trial against suspected killers, esat bici, 793 00:38:14,826 --> 00:38:16,526 Erik brown, and danny doyle, 794 00:38:16,594 --> 00:38:18,828 Begins at the state supreme court in queens. 795 00:38:18,897 --> 00:38:20,496 With the help of danny's testimony, 796 00:38:20,565 --> 00:38:24,200 Positive ids on all three, and esat's tattoo, 797 00:38:24,269 --> 00:38:25,635 Prosecutors set out to prove 798 00:38:25,703 --> 00:38:28,171 This was a crime motivated by hate. 799 00:38:28,239 --> 00:38:31,574 ♪ ♪ 800 00:38:31,642 --> 00:38:33,576 - Going into trial, dan mccarthy, 801 00:38:33,645 --> 00:38:35,711 The da at that time, 802 00:38:35,780 --> 00:38:39,115 Put together his group of prosecutors. 803 00:38:39,183 --> 00:38:42,652 You're talking-- you got top guns here. 804 00:38:42,720 --> 00:38:45,121 Danny doyle, we got him on the stand 805 00:38:45,189 --> 00:38:47,089 And testified the truth. 806 00:38:47,091 --> 00:38:50,693 ♪ ♪ 807 00:38:50,762 --> 00:38:53,330 - For julio's family, the trial was the first time 808 00:38:53,398 --> 00:38:54,664 They would hear the gruesome account 809 00:38:54,733 --> 00:38:57,600 Of what happened on July 2nd. 810 00:38:57,602 --> 00:38:59,369 - It was so horrific 811 00:38:59,437 --> 00:39:03,873 To hear danny doyle describe 812 00:39:03,942 --> 00:39:05,808 The details of the murder. 813 00:39:05,877 --> 00:39:07,510 ♪ ♪ 814 00:39:07,579 --> 00:39:11,580 During the trial, they introduce a claw hammer. 815 00:39:11,582 --> 00:39:15,751 In order to prove that he was hit with a hammer... 816 00:39:15,820 --> 00:39:18,154 ♪ ♪ 817 00:39:18,222 --> 00:39:23,293 They measured the circumference 818 00:39:23,361 --> 00:39:26,629 Of the hammer marks on his arms 819 00:39:26,631 --> 00:39:30,466 As he's raising his arms to defend himself. 820 00:39:30,535 --> 00:39:31,867 He was screaming, 821 00:39:31,937 --> 00:39:34,904 "they're killing me, they're killing me." 822 00:39:34,973 --> 00:39:38,140 I had no idea 823 00:39:38,142 --> 00:39:41,377 That that's what happened. 824 00:39:41,445 --> 00:39:46,516 It's beyond our comprehension to do that to a human being. 825 00:39:46,584 --> 00:39:48,117 How do you do that? 826 00:39:48,186 --> 00:39:50,052 [somber music] 827 00:39:50,121 --> 00:39:52,188 ♪ ♪ 828 00:39:52,256 --> 00:39:55,057 [tense music] 829 00:39:55,126 --> 00:39:57,960 - The prosecution and the defense teams battle it out 830 00:39:57,962 --> 00:40:01,630 For two weeks in front of judge and jury. 831 00:40:01,700 --> 00:40:04,434 - The mood in the courtroom was always tense. 832 00:40:04,502 --> 00:40:07,237 Would the pieces that the prosecution put together 833 00:40:07,305 --> 00:40:10,072 Be enough to sustain a conviction? 834 00:40:10,141 --> 00:40:11,541 [somber music] 835 00:40:11,609 --> 00:40:12,942 - When both sides rested, 836 00:40:13,011 --> 00:40:14,877 Family and friends in the gay community 837 00:40:14,879 --> 00:40:17,547 Who rallied for justice waited with bated breath 838 00:40:17,615 --> 00:40:21,884 As the jury deliberated for three solid days. 839 00:40:21,953 --> 00:40:23,352 - I remember the verdict came back, 840 00:40:23,354 --> 00:40:24,954 It was 10:00, 11:00 in the morning. 841 00:40:25,023 --> 00:40:27,323 ♪ ♪ 842 00:40:27,391 --> 00:40:29,959 Everybody's in the courtroom. 843 00:40:30,028 --> 00:40:34,297 The jury stands up to give the verdict. 844 00:40:34,365 --> 00:40:35,898 Guilty. 845 00:40:35,967 --> 00:40:38,634 - Erik brown and esat bici are found guilty 846 00:40:38,703 --> 00:40:42,438 Of second-degree murder, facing life sentences. 847 00:40:42,506 --> 00:40:44,540 Danny doyle, after the plea, 848 00:40:44,542 --> 00:40:47,176 Is sentenced up to 25 years in prison. 849 00:40:47,245 --> 00:40:52,382 ♪ ♪ 850 00:40:52,450 --> 00:40:55,551 - When the verdict came back guilty, 851 00:40:55,620 --> 00:40:59,389 It was a monumental relief 852 00:40:59,457 --> 00:41:01,524 And a monumental feeling of, 853 00:41:01,593 --> 00:41:04,461 "we did get justice for julio." 854 00:41:04,529 --> 00:41:08,998 ♪ ♪ 855 00:41:10,702 --> 00:41:12,168 - The julio rivera case 856 00:41:12,236 --> 00:41:14,670 Marks the first gay hate crime conviction 857 00:41:14,739 --> 00:41:17,206 In new york state history. 858 00:41:17,275 --> 00:41:18,908 [cheers and applause] 859 00:41:18,977 --> 00:41:21,077 Later that night, friends, family, 860 00:41:21,145 --> 00:41:24,514 And the lgbtq community in jackson heights 861 00:41:24,582 --> 00:41:26,749 Marched again, only this time, 862 00:41:26,751 --> 00:41:29,151 To mark this bittersweet victory. 863 00:41:29,220 --> 00:41:30,920 [cheers and applause] 864 00:41:30,989 --> 00:41:34,890 - There were storekeepers on 37th avenue 865 00:41:34,892 --> 00:41:38,027 That lit candles outside their stores 866 00:41:38,096 --> 00:41:43,565 And restaurants, straight-owned businesses. 867 00:41:43,567 --> 00:41:46,168 This is really one of our own. 868 00:41:46,237 --> 00:41:47,703 Julio wasn't alone. 869 00:41:47,772 --> 00:41:51,441 As I look around, I think we were all here that night. 870 00:41:51,509 --> 00:41:52,842 We've been here after that night, 871 00:41:52,910 --> 00:41:54,243 The night of the candlelight vigil, 872 00:41:54,245 --> 00:41:55,978 And we're here tonight. 873 00:41:56,047 --> 00:41:57,647 [cheers and applause] 874 00:41:57,715 --> 00:42:00,817 - Justice for everyone! 875 00:42:00,885 --> 00:42:05,454 ♪ ♪ 876 00:42:05,456 --> 00:42:08,791 - Julio's murder brought to the forefront 877 00:42:08,860 --> 00:42:12,228 The violence against homosexuals 878 00:42:12,296 --> 00:42:15,597 In our community and in our nation. 879 00:42:15,599 --> 00:42:18,200 It was astounding, 880 00:42:18,269 --> 00:42:22,805 And it brought more stories to the surface. 881 00:42:22,874 --> 00:42:27,710 It allowed the police to take it more seriously. 882 00:42:27,779 --> 00:42:30,179 There was a tremendous impact. 883 00:42:30,248 --> 00:42:31,980 [bittersweet music] 884 00:42:31,982 --> 00:42:33,683 - We all consider this as the case 885 00:42:33,751 --> 00:42:35,485 Where we learned we needed to do better, 886 00:42:35,553 --> 00:42:37,119 And we did. 887 00:42:37,188 --> 00:42:40,757 This eventually led to an nypd unit specially trained 888 00:42:40,759 --> 00:42:44,093 To investigate anti-lgbtq violence. 889 00:42:44,162 --> 00:42:45,995 ♪ ♪ 890 00:42:46,064 --> 00:42:47,896 - Our society's come a long, long way. 891 00:42:47,966 --> 00:42:51,867 Law enforcement has come way, way past that. 892 00:42:51,936 --> 00:42:55,237 I give the credit to the gay community. 893 00:42:55,306 --> 00:42:58,974 Because they're the ones that pressured the mayor's office, 894 00:42:59,043 --> 00:43:01,410 Pressured the police department, 895 00:43:01,479 --> 00:43:02,545 So when the people stand up 896 00:43:02,613 --> 00:43:05,114 And say, "hey," you know, "we're here," you know, 897 00:43:05,183 --> 00:43:08,117 "what are you gonna do? We're not going away." 898 00:43:08,186 --> 00:43:10,486 They gotta listen, and that's what happened. 899 00:43:10,555 --> 00:43:11,687 Things got changed. 900 00:43:11,756 --> 00:43:12,988 ♪ ♪ 901 00:43:13,057 --> 00:43:17,126 - I think julio would be very pleased 902 00:43:17,195 --> 00:43:20,630 That his suffering 903 00:43:20,698 --> 00:43:23,599 And his murder led to 904 00:43:23,667 --> 00:43:27,937 Such a tremendous impact 905 00:43:28,005 --> 00:43:31,941 That it had on a community, a nation. 906 00:43:32,009 --> 00:43:32,875 A world, really. 907 00:43:32,944 --> 00:43:37,647 - It was a very big political victory 908 00:43:37,715 --> 00:43:40,550 For the gay community, 909 00:43:40,618 --> 00:43:43,653 And it was a very high price to pay.