James Edward Snell, Jr., Aggravated Sexual Abuse, Montana 2023

Fort Belknap Man Admits Aggravated Sex Abuse

GREAT FALLS – In a shocking turn of events, a Fort Belknap man has admitted to sexually abusing a young girl on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation.

James Edward Snell, Jr., 42, pleaded guilty to aggravated sexual abuse in a U.S. District Court. According to prosecutors, an investigation into Snell and his accomplice Geneva Marie Nadeau revealed disturbing photographs and videos of them abusing a girl under the age of 12 in 2015.

Nadeau, who was also charged in the case, confirmed that Snell was involved in a sex act with the victim. In February, Nadeau was sentenced to 22 years in prison and 15 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to aggravated sexual abuse.

Snell now faces a minimum mandatory 30 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and five years to life of supervised release. U.S. District Judge Brian Morris set sentencing for Oct. 24, and Snell remains in custody.

The FBI investigated the case, with Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan Weldon and Jared Cobell prosecuting. The case highlights the severity of child sex abuse and the long-lasting impact it has on victims and their families.

As the investigation continues, the community is left to grapple with the reality of this heinous crime. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates as more information becomes available.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-mt/pr/fort-belknap-man-admits-aggravated-sex-abuse