Colombian Man Jailed for Targeting LGBT+ Londoners on Grindr
A Colombian national has been slammed with an 11-year prison sentence for drugging and robbing members of the LGBT+ community across London, including Bromley.
Grindr Predator Exposed
Brandon Conrado-Gamboa, 30, with no fixed UK address, was convicted of conspiring to commit aggravated burglary. Using the sleeping drug Zolpidem, he drugged and robbed four victims, stealing high-value items. The sentencing took place on May 24.
Police investigations revealed that Conrado-Gamboa hunted his victims via the Grindr dating app. His accomplice, Nelson Alexander Escobar Porras, remains on the run—believed to be hiding out in Barcelona, Spain. UK and Spanish authorities are working to extradite Porras back to face charges.
Calculated Crimes Caught on CCTV
Conrado-Gamboa’s spree ran from December 31, 2022, to January 9, 2023, targeting areas like Brentford, Hampton, Hounslow, and Bromley. The pair created fake profiles to lure victims, drug them with Zolpidem, and rob their possessions.
CCTV footage, phone data, and airline records showed their carefully planned attack, including flying into England the day before the crimes began.
“Both men maliciously preyed on victims using a dating app and exploited their trust,” said PC Sade Kujore-Taylor, who led the case. “My team worked tirelessly to gather evidence that led to this conviction.”
Police Step Up Protection for LGBT+ Community
The Met Police are urging LGBT+ individuals to report crimes without fear. They’ve rolled out LGBT+ Community Liaison Officers and teamed up with Drinkaware to educate officers about spiking and improve support.
Karen Tyrell, CEO of Drinkaware, said: “LGBTQ+ adults face higher risks of physical threats and police contact related to others’ drinking. Successful prosecutions like this encourage victims to come forward.”
Top Safety Tips for Online Dates
- Tell someone: Always inform a friend or family member about your plans.
- Get contact details: Collect a phone number and live photo or video of your date.
- Use secure messaging apps: Switch to apps offering more privacy.
- Verify info: Gather as much verifiable information about the person as possible.
- Protect valuables: Keep your valuables hidden during meetings.
- Watch your drink: Pour your own drink and keep it in sight at all times.
- Check images: Use reverse image searches to spot fake profiles or scams.
- Trust your gut: If something feels off, don’t ignore it.
