by AnnGardner Eubank
WARSAW—An investigation of David Lawrence Schneider, 55, of Farnham remains open after he was charged Thursday, August 8, with 17 counts of sexual misconduct.
Schneider faces 10 counts of forcible sodomy, eight counts of indecent liberties with a child while in a custodial role and aggravated sexual battery.
According to Richmond County Sheriff Stephen B. Smith, who addressed initial charges during a press conference, Schneider was charged August 6 with two felony counts of taking indecent liberties with a child while in a custodial role. The additional charges were filed in the days following the press conference.
Schneider had been a lead youth pastor and did ministerial work in area schools and other agencies, Smith said. Most recently, has been a pastor at Fairport Baptist Church in Reedville.
According to court documentation, offenses date as far back as November 2015.
The investigation is still in its early stages, Smith said. Anyone with any knowledge of Schneider’s offenses are urged to speak with investigators at Richmond County Sheriff’s Office.
On Monday, August 12, Schneider was scheduled for a capias hearing which was continued to August 26. Schneider remains at the Northern Neck Regional Jail with no bail.
