Three Defendants Plead Guilty in Killing of French Quarter Tour Guide, Bringing Long-Awaited Accountability for Kristie Thibodeaux

November 13, 2025

Three Defendants Plead Guilty in Killing of French Quarter Tour Guide, Bringing Long-Awaited Accountability for Kristie Thibodeaux

NEW ORLEANS – Monday, November 10, 2025, District Attorney Jason Rogers Williams announced that Jerbin Albarec, Kevin Nunez, and Joshua Bonifacio each pled guilty to manslaughter for their roles in the 2022 killing of beloved French Quarter tour guide Kristie Thibodeaux.

The Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office prepared this case for trial with unwavering focus, determined to deliver justice for Ms. Thibodeaux and her loved ones. The case was led by Homicide Unit Assistant District Attorneys Carlos Torres and Adele Krieger, who worked tirelessly to ensure the case was fully prepared for trial with the best chance of an outcome that delivered justice for the victim’s family.

“Kristie was a beloved member of our community – a community whose heartbeat is the French Quarter,” said ADA Adele Krieger. “She touched so many lives with her warmth and spirit. This plea allows us to honor her memory by ensuring the defendants are held accountable. It’s my sincere hope that today’s resolution brings a measure of peace to her loved ones.”

Before finalizing the plea, prosecutors met extensively with members of Ms. Thibodeaux’s family – walking them through the evidence, the legal options, and the likely trial outcomes. After careful consideration, each family member unanimously supported the plea resolution presented to the court.

“We are incredibly grateful to Ms. Thibodeaux’s family for their trust and courage throughout this process,” said ADA Carlos Torres. “Kristie’s life touched far more than her family; it touched countless people across our city. While no sentence can bring her back, this agreement brings closure and ensures that each defendant has accepted responsibility for the devastation they caused.”

• Kevin Nunez, who was 15 years old at the time of the offense and served as the shooter, was sentenced to 40 years in prison.

• Joshua Bonifacio, who provided the firearm and served as the driver, was also sentenced to 40 years.

• Jerbin Albarec received a 20-year sentence for his role.

DA Williams praised the team’s diligence and the compassion shown to the victim’s family throughout the case.

“This outcome reflects both accountability and respect for Kristie’s life, for her family’s wishes, and for the rule of law,” said District Attorney Jason Rogers Williams. “Our prosecutors and victim-support team did what we always strive to do: center the voices of those most affected and deliver justice with integrity.”

This resolution was made possible through the dedicated work of Victim Witness Advocate Jasmine Hillyer, who provided consistent guidance and emotional support to Ms. Thibodeaux’s family, and Trial Assistant Alecia Richards, whose meticulous coordination ensured the case moved seamlessly from preparation to resolution.

“While no outcome can undo the pain of this senseless act, justice today means that those responsible have been held to account,” Williams added. “We will continue to fight every day for victims and families, and to keep the people of New Orleans safe.”

Tel: (504) 822-2414 | Email: communications@orleansda.com