WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. — A couple in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, has been arrested after being accused of selling cocaine to confidential informants over the course of several months. John Allen, 43, and Vanessa Jo Snyder, 42, both of Williamsport, allegedly engaged in multiple drug deals, which were recorded by law enforcement officials using surveillance devices.
The investigation began in June when an informant tipped off detectives about a man known as “Booda,” later identified as Allen, who was selling cocaine. After further surveillance, investigators identified Snyder as Allen’s accomplice.
Dollar Store Deal
In June, detectives arranged a drug deal through an informant, who contacted Allen for seven grams of cocaine. The deal was set at a Family Dollar parking lot on West Fourth Street, where Snyder met the informant, entered their car, and exchanged two plastic baggies of cocaine for marked bills. Police were able to record the transaction, which confirmed their suspicions.
Gas Station Exchange
The second drug deal took place in September at a Conoco Station, where the informant was directed to meet Allen. Snyder allegedly handed over a bag of cocaine and even returned $20 to the informant for a soda purchase. Detectives had been surveilling Snyder’s movements and noted Allen was seen at the residence when she returned.
Police Visit and Search
In September, detectives visited Allen’s home and spoke with Snyder, who agreed to cooperate. While inside, Snyder allegedly tried to hide a black backpack that contained a rifle magazine, marijuana, and a digital scale. After applying for a search warrant, officers found 13 grams of cocaine, a Taurus 9mm handgun, and a .45 Derringer with an obliterated serial number.
Interrogation and Arrest
During questioning, Allen admitted to possessing cocaine but denied owning the firearms. He claimed the guns had been planted by a neighbor’s child. However, Snyder later confessed to possessing the guns and selling cocaine due to losing her job.
Allen, a convicted felon, is prohibited from owning firearms. He faces charges of delivering a controlled substance, criminal use of a communication facility, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, and possession of a firearm with an altered serial number. He is currently free on $75,000 unsecured bail.
Snyder is charged with delivery of a controlled substance and conspiracy to deliver a controlled substance. She has no bail listed at this time.
This arrest highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement in Williamsport to crack down on drug trafficking and illegal firearm possession.
