New York State authorities have charged five individuals in connection with the murder of a missing transgender man, who, according to officials, suffered extensive torture over an extended period.

Sam Nordquist, a 24-year-old from Minnesota, was last seen on February 9. After moving to New York in September, he gradually lost communication with family and friends, as noted by the police.

During a recent press conference, law enforcement described the case as “one of the most horrific crimes” they have encountered, revealing that Nordquist endured “deeply disturbing” mistreatment starting in December and lasting several months.

All five suspects are currently in police custody and face second-degree murder charges.

The suspects, who hail from the vicinity where Nordquist’s remains were found in northern New York, include Precious Arzuaga, Patrick Goodwin, Kyle Sage, Jennifer Quijano, and Emily Motyka, with ages ranging from 19 to 38.

It remains uncertain if any of the accused have legal representation. Under U.S. law, they are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Authorities reported that Nordquist’s body was located in a field on Thursday in Benton, approximately 53 miles (85 kilometers) southeast of Rochester.

Investigators revealed they conducted a search about 20 miles from the site where Nordquist’s body was found, uncovering evidence that he had suffered “prolonged physical and psychological abuse at the hands of multiple individuals” starting in early December and continuing until recently.

It is believed that Nordquist may have been residing at a motel with one or more suspects. However, police have chosen not to disclose detailed information as the investigation is ongoing.

Major Kevin Sucher from the New York State Police characterized the circumstances surrounding this case as “beyond depraved” and declared it one of the worst homicide investigations his department has ever managed.

“No individual should have to endure what Sam endured,” Major Sucher stated.

When asked whether the death is being investigated as a hate crime, police indicated that while it has not been ruled out, their investigation is still active.

Captain Kelly Swift of the New York State Police mentioned that authorities are working to establish the nature of the relationships between Nordquist and the suspects, as well as among the suspects themselves.

The tragic incident has sparked outrage and sorrow within the LGBTQ community.

Rochester LGBTQ+ Together, a local advocacy group, expressed their anger and disgust upon hearing about the murder.

“The ongoing violence against transgender individuals in this country stems directly from the ignorance and hatred that prevail in our society,” the organization asserted.

In a joint statement, Rochester city council members Mary Lupien, Stanley Martin, and Kim Smith voiced their concern over the increasing hostility towards transgender individuals.

“We reaffirm our dedication to safeguarding Trans rights, ensuring safety for all, and we want to express that you belong—completely, openly, and without fear,” they declared.

A 2021 study conducted by the University of California, Los Angeles, found that transgender individuals are over four times more likely to face violence compared to their non-transgender counterparts.