Canastota man sentenced to five years in federal prison for role in drug conspiracy and possession of firearms

Syracuse, New York – A 46-year-old man from Canastota has been sentenced to five years behind bars for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy and for possessing firearms while using illegal drugs. The sentencing took place in Syracuse, New York, where federal authorities laid out the details of the case against Andrew Snyder.

Snyder was handed a 60-month federal prison term after pleading guilty to conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and a heroin/fentanyl mixture, as well as for illegally possessing firearms. His case was heard before Chief United States District Judge Brenda K. Sannes, who also ordered him to serve an additional four years of supervised release once his prison sentence is complete.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Snyder’s illegal activity spanned nearly two years. “As part of his prior guilty plea, Snyder admitted that from approximately October 2020 through May 17, 2022, he conspired with his wife, Jessica Snyder, to distribute both methamphetamine and heroin/fentanyl mixture to others out of the garage of their home in Madison County.” The drugs were reportedly sold from their residence, with both individuals actively involved in the distribution.

Read also: Rochester History releases spring edition packed with fresh digital content and newly uncovered historical insights

Federal investigators also revealed that Snyder was in possession of firearms while using controlled substances. On May 17, 2022, authorities found that he had two loaded 9mm handguns and ammunition at his home. “Snyder further admitted that on May 17, 2022, while he was an unlawful user of controlled substances, including methamphetamine, he possessed two 9mm handguns and ammunition.”

The sentencing was announced by United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, alongside Bryan Miller, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s New York Field Division, and Madison County Sheriff Todd Hood. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, with support from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the New York State Police.

Jessica Snyder, who was also charged in connection with the drug distribution scheme, is scheduled to be sentenced on April 24, 2025.

Read also: Pittsford Dog Park will soon require key card access as part of Monroe County System upgrade

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas R. Sutcliffe and Matthew J. McCrobie handled the prosecution. Authorities stated that the case highlights the continued focus on removing illegal drugs and firearms from local communities.

Snyder’s sentencing marks another effort by federal and local law enforcement agencies to address the dangers posed by drug trafficking networks, especially those involving highly addictive substances like methamphetamine and fentanyl. The combination of drug sales and access to firearms by users of those drugs is considered particularly dangerous and continues to be a top priority for law enforcement.