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Arzuaga pleads guilty in Nordquist murder case

Arzuaga pleads guilty in Nordquist murder case

Precious Arzuaga pleaded guilty to all counts of an Ontario County indictment tied to the kidnapping, torture, sexual abuse and murder of Sam Nordquist, prosecutors said.

Ontario County District Attorney Jason MacBride said Arzuaga entered the plea in Ontario County Court before Judge Kristina Karle. The district attorney’s office said the plea will result in a sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole.


As part of the plea, prosecutors said Arzuaga admitted participating in the prolonged kidnapping, torture, sexual abuse and murder of Nordquist between Jan. 1, 2025, and Feb. 2, 2025. She also admitted concealing Nordquist’s body after his death, according to the district attorney’s office.

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.

MacBride said the plea marks a significant step toward justice for Nordquist’s family and the community. He credited First Assistant District Attorney James Nobles and Chief Assistant District Attorney Sara Van Strydonck for leading the prosecution.

MacBride also credited New York State Police investigators, saying their work was instrumental in the case.

The case remains active. Prosecutors said charges are still pending against five co-defendants, and the Ontario County District Attorney’s Office said it will continue pursuing accountability for those accused in the crimes committed against Nordquist.

Sentencing is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. Sept. 4 before Karle in Ontario County Court. Members of Nordquist’s family are expected to address the court at that time.