A long-time judge in upstate New York has stepped down after claiming he couldn’t serve as an impartial juror because he believes anyone in court must be guilty. Richard T. Snyder, who served as a justice in Petersburgh Town Court for about a decade, resigned following misconduct charges filed by the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct, according to officials on Tuesday. His controversial statements, made during a 2023 jury selection process, sparked outrage and led to his removal.
During jury selection in Rensselaer County, Snyder identified himself as a judge and insisted he couldn’t be fair. According to court transcripts, he stated, “I know everybody who comes in front of me. I know they are guilty. They would not be in front of me.” Despite attempts to disqualify himself, officials dismissed him from the jury only after he continued to argue about his inability to remain impartial, adding, “No. It would not be fair.”
The judge overseeing jury selection promptly reported Snyder to state authorities. At a subsequent judicial commission hearing, Snyder admitted he understood the legal principle that defendants are innocent until proven guilty. However, he also reiterated his belief, saying, “They’re guilty because they did something wrong. That’s why they got a ticket. But they’re not guilty until proven guilty in court.”
Snyder, who was elected as a justice but is not a licensed attorney, agreed to permanently step down and never serve as a judge again. His remarks drew sharp criticism from Robert H. Tembeckjian, the commission’s administrator. Tembeckjian called Snyder’s actions “astounding,” adding, “There is no place on the bench for someone who so deeply misunderstands the role of a judge and the administration of justice.”
This incident highlights the vital importance of impartiality in the judiciary and the expectation that judges uphold the highest ethical standards. Snyder’s resignation serves as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with administering justice.
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