No Evidence of Hate Crime in Killing of Transgender Man in New York
February 18, 2025
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Law enforcement officials said there is no evidence of a hate crime at the moment in the killing of a transgender man in New York state.
Why It Matters
Sam Nordquist, a 24-year-old transgender man, died after enduring violence and torture for more than a month. Five people on Friday were charged with second-degree murder in Nordquist’s death.
This undated photo provided by the New York State Police shows Sam Nordquist. This undated photo provided by the New York State Police shows Sam Nordquist. New York State Police via AP
What To Know
The Ontario County District Attorney’s Office said it has “no indication that Sam’s murder was a hate crime,” in a statement obtained by the Associated Press (AP).
“His assailants were known to each other, identified as LGBTQ+, and at least one of the defendants lived with Sam in the time period leading up to the instant offense,” the district attorney’s office said in its statement.
The suspects were arraigned on Friday and are being held in the Ontario County Jail without bail.
The district attorney’s office urged the community not to speculate on the motive behind the killing.
New York law defines a hate crime as an offense committed “in whole or in substantial part” because of a belief or perception regarding the race, national origin, ancestry, gender, gender identity or expression, religion, age, disability or sexual orientation of an individual.
What Happened to Nordquist?
Nordquist was reported missing on February 9 and his body was found in a field in Yates County on Thursday.
New York State Police said Nordquist was subjected to “prolonged physical and psychological abuse.” The Monroe County Medical Examiner’s Office will conduct an autopsy to confirm the cause and manner of death.
Who Is Precious Arzuaga?
Precious Arzuaga, Patrick Goodwin, Kyle Sage, Jennifer Quijano and Emily Motyka were charged in Nordquist’s killing.
Sam left his home in Minnesota in September to visit Arzuaga, a woman he met online, his mother Linda Nordquist told Syracuse.com. Arzuaga, 38, is from Geneva, New York.
“That’s all Sam ever wanted, was to be loved and to be in a relationship,” Linda told the outlet.
Is There a GoFundMe for Nordquist?
A GoFundMe organized by Nordquist’s family for travel and other expenses has raised more than $120,000.
What People Are Saying
Ontario County District Attorney James Ritts, at a news conference: “The facts and the circumstances of this crime are beyond depraved. No human being should have to endure what Sam endured.”
New York Governor Kathy Hochul, in a statement: “The charges against these individuals are sickening and all New Yorkers should join together to condemn this horrific act. We are praying for Sam Nordquist’s family, community and loved ones who are experiencing unimaginable grief.”
What Happens Next
Each suspect faces 15 years to life in prison if convicted. Their next court appearance is scheduled for Wednesday at Hopewell Town Court, according to Spectrum News 1.
Newsweek reached out to New York State Police for confirmation.
The APcontributed information for this article.
Do you have a story Newsweek should be covering? Do you have any questions about this story? Contact LiveNews@newsweek.com.
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