Emden Men Charged with Child Molestation

By Marlana Smith

Two Shelby County men has been arrested for child molestation, second degree, according to court documents filed June 22, 2026.

Matthew R. Ballinger, 35, of Emden, is charged in case No. 26SB-CR00058 and Bryce C. Snarr, 39, of Emden, is charged in case No. 26SB-CR00057. Both being charged with one count of second-degree child molestation, aggravated sexual offense, involving a child younger than 17 and an offender more than four years older than the child.

According to court documents, the alleged offenses occurred between January 9 and June 19, 2026, in Shelby County. The probable cause statement alleges Ballinger and Snarr subjected the victim to sexual contact involving more than one person.

The document says the allegation is supported by a verbal statement from the victim, who reported being subjected to sexual contact with both defendants. The document also states the incident was recorded.

The charges were filed by Shelby County Prosecuting Attorney Jordan Force.

Ballinger is being held in the Macon County Jail with no bond.

Snarr is being held in the Shelby County Jail with no bond.

All suspects are innocent unless proven guilty in court.