(WNY News Now) – A 30-year-old Illinois man has been indicted in Erie County for allegedly attempting to kidnap a student during a school intrusion in Buffalo.
Buffalo, N.Y. – Erie County District Attorney Michael J. Keane announced the indictment of Shane K. Cronin, 30, of Lombard, Illinois, in connection with an attempted kidnapping inside a Buffalo school on February 11, 2025.
Cronin was arraigned before Erie County Court Judge James Bargnesi on multiple charges, including one count of Attempted Kidnapping in the Second Degree, a Class “C” violent felony. He also faces charges of Burglary in the Third Degree (Class “D” felony), Attempted Luring a Child and Attempted Assault in the Second Degree (both Class “E” felonies), and Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Class “A” misdemeanor).
Authorities say the incident occurred around 12:35 p.m. at a school near Martin Luther King, Jr. Park. Cronin is accused of unlawfully entering the building and approaching two juvenile students in a hallway. He allegedly attempted to lure and abduct one of the students.
A school employee intervened and instructed Cronin to leave. When confronted, Cronin allegedly struck the employee in the face and pushed her to the ground. A school security guard responded, prompting Cronin to flee the scene. He was apprehended nearby shortly afterward by Buffalo Police.
Cronin was initially held without bail and remains in custody. He is scheduled to return to court on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. for a pre-trial conference. If convicted of the top charge, he faces up to 15 years in prison.
District Attorney Keane praised Lt. Sgt. Jason Schnelle of the Buffalo Police Department for his efforts in the ongoing investigation, noting that additional charges may be forthcoming.
“I understand this alleged incident has raised questions and heightened concerns about the safety and well-being of children in the Buffalo Public School District.” Keane said. “I assure the public that this office remains committed to the thorough investigation and prosecution of any crime involving a child.”
Keane also addressed public concerns surrounding recent statements made by a member of the Buffalo Police Department, noting that his office is conducting a separate investigation and will provide updates when appropriate.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Stephen C. Papia and Chief Danielle N. D’Abate of the Felony Trials Bureau.
As with all criminal cases, the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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