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WARNING: This article contains graphic details that may be disturbing to some readers.
A private equity executive utilized an apartment in New York City as a site of extreme violence, engaging in acts of sexual assault and physical abuse against six women, according to Manhattan prosecutors. The individual, identified as Ryan Hemphill, 43, is facing a staggering 116-count indictment that includes charges of predatory sexual assault, stemming from offenses that began last October. If convicted, he could potentially spend the rest of his life in prison.
Prosecutors allege that Hemphill, who is also a licensed attorney, employed threats of violence and falsehoods about his influence and connections with law enforcement and organized crime to intimidate his victims, aiming to cover up his heinous actions.
“The circumstances surrounding this case are profoundly unsettling—a calculated and prolonged series of brutal acts against women who were clearly in vulnerable situations. Such predatory behavior has no place in our society and will be prosecuted with utmost seriousness,” stated New York Police Department Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch.
According to authorities, Hemphill met several of his victims through various dating platforms, including Seeking.com (formerly Seeking Arrangements), SugarDaddy and SugarDaddyMeet, as well as FetLife and Craigslist. He allegedly offered financial compensation in exchange for companionship, occasionally using counterfeit money to make these payments.
Law enforcement discovered multiple surveillance cameras in Hemphill’s apartment, with evidence indicating that dozens, possibly hundreds, of additional women may have been recorded in compromising situations, many of whom were found to be naked and blindfolded.
In addition to the troubling video evidence, authorities reported the seizure of numerous firearms, high-capacity magazines, and an extensive collection of illegal drugs, such as heroin, cocaine, amphetamines, and fentanyl, within the premises.
As per the indictment, Hemphill reportedly coerced or deceived the women into sharing their previous traumatic experiences with sexual abuse, only to mimic those traumas during his assaults. Disturbingly, he also allegedly forcibly administered drugs to incapacitate them, leading to scenarios where they were physically restrained with handcuffs while enduring physical attacks.
One particularly harrowing account involved a victim who was allegedly left bound to Hemphill’s bed while pleading for her release. In additional instances, he wielded a cattle prod typically used for livestock, and a shocking collar was placed on some women during the assaults.
The psychological torment inflicted by Hemphill was also evident, as he reportedly threatened victims with firearms and knives while subjecting them to degrading treatment, including urination and verbal humiliation.
Some individuals were coerced into filming confessions that falsely stated they consented to their own assaults, a tactic Hemphill allegedly employed to dissuade them from seeking help or reporting his actions.
During a recent court hearing, Judge Ann Scherzer deemed it necessary for Hemphill to remain in custody. Concerns were raised about his potential escape due to his significant financial resources and connections, including a history of philanthropic activity and involvement in real estate.
“His actions demonstrate a blatant willingness to protect himself at all costs against these serious allegations,” the judge remarked.
Attempts to reach Hemphill for comment have been made, and the investigation is ongoing as authorities continue to pursue justice for the victims involved.
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