New Orleans Police Warn of French Quarter Pickpocketing During Carnival

Authorities arrest five suspects and recover stolen phones, credit cards, and IDs

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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New Orleans police are warning Carnival visitors to be vigilant after a surge in pickpocketing incidents in the French Quarter over the weekend. Authorities have arrested five individuals and recovered 71 stolen cell phones, as well as numerous credit cards and IDs. The investigation began on February 13 after an increase in reported thefts, with detectives utilizing surveillance footage to identify the suspects.

Why it matters

Carnival is a major tourist draw for New Orleans, and pickpocketing incidents can undermine the city's reputation for hospitality and safety. The French Quarter is a popular destination during the festivities, making visitors vulnerable to opportunistic thieves. This crackdown aims to deter further thefts and ensure the security of both residents and visitors enjoying the Carnival celebrations.

The details

Police arrested Christian Noela, 31; Rosa Freire, 59; Fernanda Almagro, 24; Joselyn Soque, 29; and Andres Ambo Chacaguasay, 18 in connection with the pickpocketing incidents. Authorities recovered 71 stolen cell phones, as well as numerous credit cards and identification cards, with approximately half of the phones already returned to their owners.

  • The investigation began on February 13 after an increase in pickpocketing reports.
  • The arrests were made on Saturday, February 15, 2026.

The players

Captain Samuel Palumbo

Commander of the NOPD's Eighth District, which patrols Bourbon Street and the French Quarter.

Christian Noela

One of the five individuals arrested in connection with the pickpocketing incidents.

Rosa Freire

One of the five individuals arrested in connection with the pickpocketing incidents.

Fernanda Almagro

One of the five individuals arrested in connection with the pickpocketing incidents.

Joselyn Soque

One of the five individuals arrested in connection with the pickpocketing incidents.

Andres Ambo Chacaguasay

One of the five individuals arrested in connection with the pickpocketing incidents.

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What they’re saying

“We must remain vigilant, particularly in crowded areas. I advise Carnival attendees to keep valuables in front pockets or secure them in cross-body bags or fanny packs worn facing forward. It's also crucial to keep bags and purses zipped at all times, especially while navigating crowds or inside businesses.”

— Captain Samuel Palumbo, Commander of the NOPD's Eighth District (newsdirectory3.com)

What’s next

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.

The takeaway

This crackdown on French Quarter pickpocketing during Carnival highlights the importance of personal vigilance and security measures for both locals and tourists attending the festivities. The arrests and recovery of stolen items demonstrate the NOPD's commitment to protecting the city's reputation for hospitality and ensuring a safe and enjoyable Carnival experience for all.