Precious Arzuaga has pleaded guilty to all charges against her in connection with the kidnapping, torture, and murder of Sam Nordquist, admitting her role in one of the Finger Lakes’ most disturbing homicide cases.
Arzuaga entered the guilty plea on Friday before Ontario County Judge Kristina Karle. As part of the plea, she admitted to participating in the prolonged kidnapping, torture, sexual abuse and murder of Nordquist between January 1 and February 2, 2025. She also admitted to helping conceal Nordquist’s body after the killing.
Arzuaga pleaded guilty to first-degree murder, two counts of first-degree kidnapping, second-degree conspiracy, first-degree aggravated sexual abuse, two counts of second-degree coercion, concealment of a human corpse, and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child.
Ontario County District Attorney Jason MacBride said the plea guarantees Arzuaga will spend the rest of her life in prison.
“No human being deserves to be treated the way Sam was,” MacBride said. “What Ms. Arzuaga admitted to today is pure evil, and our hearts go out to Sam’s family. This plea results in the defendant receiving a sentence of life without the possibility of parole. Hopefully, that assurance provides a small level of comfort to Sam’s family and our community.”
MacBride credited First Assistant District Attorney James Nobles and Chief Assistant District Attorney Sara Van Strydonck for leading the prosecution, praising their compassion, professionalism and commitment to securing justice for Nordquist and his family.
He also commended the New York State Police, saying investigators worked tirelessly to build the case and bring those responsible to justice.
Although Arzuaga’s guilty plea marks a significant milestone, the case is far from over. Five co-defendants still face pending charges stemming from Nordquist’s death. Earlier this month, co-defendant Emily Motyka pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and kidnapping.
Authorities say Nordquist, a 24-year-old transgender man, was held captive, tortured, and sexually abused at Patty’s Lodge in the Town of Hopewell before his body was discovered in a field in the Town of Benton in February 2025.
Arzuaga is scheduled to be sentenced on September 4 at 9:30 a.m. in Ontario County Court. Members of Nordquist’s family are expected to address the court before Judge Kristina Karle during the sentencing hearing.
