New Orleans: Police Warn of French Quarter Pickpocketing During Carnival
- New Orleans police are warning Carnival visitors to be vigilant following a surge in pickpocketing incidents in the French Quarter over the weekend.
- Captain Samuel Palumbo, commander of the NOPD’s Eighth District, which patrols Bourbon Street and the French Quarter, announced the arrests on Monday, February 16, 2026.
- That initial arrest led investigators to an “off-site location” where three additional women and one man were apprehended, allegedly in possession of stolen property.
Carnival Revelers Targeted in French Quarter Pickpocketing Spree; Police Make Arrests
New Orleans police are warning Carnival visitors to be vigilant following a surge in pickpocketing incidents in the French Quarter over the weekend. Authorities have arrested five individuals in connection with the thefts and recovered a significant number of stolen items, including 71 cell phones.
Captain Samuel Palumbo, commander of the NOPD’s Eighth District, which patrols Bourbon Street and the French Quarter, announced the arrests on Monday, . Detectives identified two suspected pickpockets operating on Friday and, after distributing their images to officers, made an arrest on Saturday.
That initial arrest led investigators to an “off-site location” where three additional women and one man were apprehended, allegedly in possession of stolen property. The individuals arrested have been identified as Christian Noela, 31; Rosa Freire, 59; Fernanda Almagro, 24; Joselyn Soque, 29; and Andres Ambo Chacaguasay, 18.
Police have reportedly recovered not only 71 cell phones but also “numerous” credit cards and identification cards. Approximately half of the stolen phones have already been returned to their owners, and authorities are urging anyone who believes they may have been a victim to visit the NOPD’s Eighth District station at 334 Royal St. To check if their property has been recovered.
The investigation began on after an increase in pickpocketing reports. Detectives utilized surveillance video to identify the initial suspects and track the operation.
Captain Palumbo emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant, particularly in crowded areas. He advised Carnival attendees to keep valuables in front pockets or secure them in cross-body bags or fanny packs worn facing forward. He also stressed the need to keep bags and purses zipped at all times, especially while navigating crowds or inside businesses.
The New Orleans Police Department continues to monitor the situation and encourages anyone with information related to these incidents to come forward. The ongoing investigation aims to deter further thefts and ensure the safety of both residents and visitors enjoying Carnival celebrations.