Jamestown man admits to role in narcotics conspiracy

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) -- A Jamestown man pleaded guilty to his role in a narcotics conspiracy wherein an individual died from an apparent 2019 overdose, the U.S. Attorney's Office announced Wednesday.

Officials said Curtis Snyder, 51, was allegedly involved with Rocco Beardsley, who sold large quantities of heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and other controlled substances in the Jamestown area.

Beardsley was believed to be involved in the apparent overdose of an individual identified as J.A., who was discovered deceased in a Jamestown residence on April 9, 2019, officials said.

About a month later, Beardsley allegedly sent Snyder to a residence to force an individual to make a video about Beardsley's lack of involvement in the overdose. Snyder would receive a bundle of heroin and fentanyl in exchange.

The individual allegedly complied and made the video, stating that Beardsley was not present at J.A.'s residence on the day of J.A.’s overdose death. 

Snyder pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute heroin, fentanyl and meth. He faces a maximum of 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine.

He is scheduled to be sentenced Jan. 9, 2025.