KINGMAN — A Kingman man facing a life prison sentence if convicted at trial is so far declining a plea agreement that would send him to the Arizona Department of Corrections for at least 20 years for sexual activity involving two children under the age of 6. During an April 30 settlement conference, Steven Snyder, 32, was advised he faces 170 to more than 300 years prison if convicted at trial of 3 counts of sexual conduct with a minor and 15 counts of sexual exploitation of a minor.
“I completely understand that your Honor,” Snyder said.
Defense attorney Paul Amann, Mohave County Superior Court judge Lee Jantzen (now retired) and prosecutor Leah Nelson suggested Snyder might want to reconsider his wish to go to trial. Nelson said the strength of the state’s case includes incriminating Snyder cell phone video showing both children engaged in sexual activity, with a tattoo that easily identifies Snyder and his involvement.
It was noted during the hearing that most child pornography defendants take plea deals in Mohave County, guaranteeing prison and lifetime probation, but sparing them from super extended prison terms. Jerry Black, 50, was recently handed a 100-year prison sentence after rejecting a plea offer and being convicted in his child porn possession case from Colorado City.
The plea offer remains open, pending a June 4 status conference that would set a trial date if Snyder still declines the deal.
Read more crime and court stories like this by clicking here.
