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An Illinois pastor and volleyball coach, Chet Snyder, is facing multiple charges of sexual assault, unlawful restraint, and providing alcohol to a minor, according to The Roys Report. Snyder, 51, serves as a pastor at The Journey Church at 900 Leininger Rd, Fairfield, IL 62837, and is also the head girls' volleyball coach at Frontier Community College in the same town. His arrest last week has sent shockwaves through the local community.
Court records reveal that Snyder is accused of sexually abusing two individuals: a boy under 18 and a man under 21. The incidents allegedly occurred in 2016 and August 2025, respectively. According to the court citation, the first victim, identified as T.S., claims Snyder touched his inner thigh for sexual purposes while holding a position of authority over him as a teacher, coach, and youth minister.
The second victim, H.D., alleges a far more disturbing encounter. On August 14, 2025, Snyder reportedly assaulted H.D. in a car, touching him inappropriately and refusing to let him leave. Snyder also allegedly forced H.D. to drive around town while plying him with alcohol. Six days after the incident, H.D. obtained a no-contact order against Snyder, which the court quickly granted.
Following his arrest, Snyder appeared in court on Monday. He has since been released with a GPS monitor and remains under a no-contact order with the alleged victims. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for October 7.
As the legal proceedings unfold, Snyder has been placed on administrative leave from his coaching role at Frontier Community College. The Illinois Eastern Community Colleges (IECC) confirmed that Snyder is on non-disciplinary paid leave and is prohibited from contacting any students while the matter is under investigation. The IECC also stated that the allegations do not involve the college or its students.
Snyder’s arrest has left many in Fairfield grappling with the allegations. The Journey Church, where Snyder serves as a pastor, has not responded to requests for comment. Despite the silence from the church, Snyder’s presence remains evident on its social media accounts, where he is frequently featured in photos performing baptisms.
The case has also prompted emotional reactions from those who knew Snyder. J.A. Williams, a friend, expressed heartbreak on Facebook, recalling positive memories of Snyder while grappling with the weight of the accusations.
"God can and does use imperfect people to do good things," Williams wrote, adding that this does not excuse any wrongdoing.
Snyder began working as a volleyball coach at Frontier Community College in December 2024 after a 22-year tenure coaching at the local high school. His reputation as a community leader is now under intense scrutiny as legal proceedings progress.
The case continues to develop, with the community watching closely and awaiting further updates from law enforcement and the courts.
When trust is shattered by allegations of abuse involving a pastor, families often face overwhelming questions about what to do next. To better understand the legal options available, attorney Erv Nevitt, an experienced advocate for survivors of pastor sexual abuse in Illinois, discusses how victims and their families can navigate the path to accountability and healing.
Darla Medina (Editor): When allegations like these surface against a pastor, what legal avenues are available for the victims?
Erv Nevitt (Attorney): Victims of abuse by someone in a role of trust, such as a pastor or coach, can pursue both criminal and civil actions. The criminal charges, which we’re seeing in this case, aim to hold the accused accountable to the state for violating the law. But victims also have the right to file civil suits to seek compensation for the trauma, medical costs, and long-term psychological care they may require.
Medina: How does the position of authority factor into these cases legally?
Nevitt: It’s a critical factor. When someone holds authority over a victim, such as a pastor, teacher, or coach, the law often views the abuse as an abuse of power. This can heighten the severity of the charges, as trust and influence are being exploited. The courts take this seriously because it impacts not just the individual victims but the integrity of the institutions they represent.
Medina: What challenges might these victims face in coming forward?
Nevitt: Victims often fear judgment or retaliation, especially in tight-knit communities like Fairfield. They may also struggle with feelings of guilt or shame, even though they bear no responsibility. It’s important for victims to know they’re not alone and that there are legal protections and support networks available to help them through the process.
Medina: Would you say there’s a broader impact when cases like this emerge?
Nevitt: Without a doubt. Cases like this can create a ripple effect, encouraging other survivors to come forward and prompting institutions to reevaluate their policies. It’s an opportunity for communities to have difficult but necessary conversations about accountability and prevention.
If you or a loved one has been affected by abuse, you don’t have to face it alone. Our team is here to provide guidance, support, and legal representation every step of the way. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your options and begin the process of seeking justice.
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