Salamanca man faces sexual abuse charge

SALAMANCA, N.Y. (WIVB) - Authorities call him one of the worst sexual predators ever on the southern tier. Shawn Snyder, a father of two, is behind bars, accused of preying on young children.

37-year-old Shawn Snyder, described as a quiet father who had custody of one of his two young children, is believed to have molested or sexually abused as many as eight boys and girls, ages two to nine.

Salamanca City Police Sergeant Ronda Stanton said, "Probably one of the worst cases I've seen in the City of Salamanca."

Sources say some of his alleged victims were friends of his own children.

One child finally came forward with information leading to Snyder's arrest in April, and a search of his Waite Avenue home in Salamanca. He gave a full statement at that time, leading to charges of predator sexual assault against a five-year-old child. Now he is charged with sexually abusing two more children, with many other cases still under investigation.

A mother of one of Snyder's alleged victims said, "He deserves everything he's going to get, and more."

The mom, who did not want to be identified, still wanted to be heard, "My child told me what he needed to tell me, and obviously very difficult, so my child will definitely get the help that is needed."

She has advice for all parents, "Just really pay attention of who you have watching your children and who your friends go and visit. Even if it's one of their friends, you have to check the parents too."

Snyder had been arrested years ago on charges of possessing and selling marijuana. Now, in addition to the sexual abuse charges he faces in Salamanca, the FBI is investigating alleged production of child pornography.

Salamanca Police say there could be more victims and are asking anyone with information to call them at 945-2330.

Snyder is being held at the Cattaraugus County Jail in Little Valley.