Precious Arzuaga, identified as the ringleader in the torture and murder of Sam Nordquist, a 24-year-old transgender man, was sentenced to life in prison without parole on Tuesday in Ontario County Court. Arzuaga pleaded guilty to first-degree murder in July.
Nordquist, who had moved to New York from Minnesota in September 2024, was found dead in a field in Yates County on February 13, 2025. Authorities stated that Arzuaga lured Nordquist to the region with the promise of a relationship, but instead subjected him to a month-long ordeal of violence that began on January 1, 2025, and concluded with his death on February 2, 2025.
Arzuaga led a group of six individuals, including her ex-girlfriend Jennifer Quijano and two children, in the prolonged abuse of Nordquist. Prosecutors described the crime as akin to a horror film, detailing how Nordquist was punched, kicked, beaten with various objects including sticks, ropes, and a table leg, and sexually assaulted. His death was attributed to repeated acts of violence and torture.
Nordquist was reported missing by his family on February 9, 2025, after losing contact. His body was discovered wrapped in plastic in a Yates County field several days later.
Jennifer Quijano also pleaded guilty to first-degree murder and received a life sentence without parole. Prosecutors indicated that Quijano's involvement was fueled by jealousy over Arzuaga's attention being diverted to Nordquist.
Other defendants in the case include Emily Motyka and Kyle Sage, who pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and kidnapping and are awaiting sentencing. Three other defendants, Patrick Goodwin, Thomas Eaves, and one other, are scheduled to go to trial in January.
Prosecutors presented text messages from Arzuaga that indicated intent, including one stating, "Sam can never leave New York alive." The motive for the extensive torture was characterized by prosecutors as "torture for torture sake."