Richard T. Snyder, a town justice in Petersburgh, New York, resigned after making controversial statements reflecting his belief that defendants are guilty. During jury duty, he stated his inability to serve as a juror due to his bias, which led to a report to the state Commission on Judicial Conduct. His comments prompted an investigation, and although he attempted to clarify his statements, he ended up stepping down before the conclusion of his term. Snyder's remarks raised concerns about judicial impartiality and the presumption of innocence in the court system.
"I know everybody come in front of me, I know they are guilty. They would not be in front of me."
"I meant that, reason why people got tickets is because they did something wrong, but I know people's [sic] not guilty. They're innocent until proven guilty."
"I know they're guilty because they did something wrong. That's how they got a ticket."
"But they're not guilty till they come to court. They're innocent till proven guilty."
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