Law enforcement officials who investigated the torture and murder of Sam Nordquist, a 24-year-old black transgender man from Minnesota whose body was found in upstate New York last week, have discovered “signs” of hate crimes, they said in a statement Sunday.
“We have made it clear that Sam and his assailants are known to each other, identified as LGBTQ+, and at least one of the defendants lived with Sam for the period leading up to an immediate crime,” police said.
“We share community shocks with such violent acts of violence and understand the fears that circulate among members of the LGBTQ+ community,” they said. “We continue to focus on holding these individuals accountable and we will continue to work tirelessly to complete our investigation into Sam’s murder.”
In a statement Tuesday, Glaad said “while law enforcement is encouraged to quickly consider this horrifying conduct, we warn investigators from excluding hate crime accusations based solely on this statement,” adding that “anti-LGBTQ hatred can be perpetuated by anyone, regardless of the victim or their gender identity or their relationship with sexual orientation.”
Sarah Kate Ellis, president and CEO of GLAAD, said: “Our hearts are broken with the loss of Sam Nordquist. Sam was more than a statistic. He was a bright light in the lives of his sons, brothers, friends and those who knew him.
“His life was stolen from him after enduring unspeakable cruelty. We are in solidarity as Sam’s family, friends and community demand justice. We refuse to silence Sam’s story.
“We demand accountability, justice, and a world where trans people can live safely, respected and freely.”
New York Governor Kathy Hochul said Sunday that he had directed state agencies, including the New York Department of Human Rights’ Anti-Hate and Prejudice Division, to help investigate the Nordquist murder.
New York Attorney General Letitia James wrote in X: “This is horrifying and those responsible for this horrifying act must be accountable. My heart is with Sam’s family, my loved ones, the entire LGBTQ+ community.”
Police found the body on a Yates County field and determined earlier this month that Nordquist had been “exposed to a prolonged physical and psychological abuse” during his death.
Source: Washington Blade: LGBTQ News, Politics, LGBTQ Rights, Gay News – www.washingtonblade.com
