MAYVILLE — Samuel Saeli, 40, of Dunkirk, was sentenced today to 16 years in state prison plus 10 years of post-release supervision after being convicted of second-degree kidnapping and second-degree kidnapping as a sexually motivated felony, by Acting Chautauqua County Court Judge Paul B. Wojtaszek.

Chautauqua County District Attorney, Patrick Swanson announced the sentencing. “Today, the defendant was placed where he cannot pose a threat to any child for the next 16 years. Justice was served with the sentence the Court handed down,” he said.

“First and foremost, I want to thank the Fredonia Police Department, and our local FBI partners for their outstanding work on this case,” Swanson said. “The quick response of every officer involved in this case needs to be commended. This case reminds each and every parent of the dangers that exist in today’s world. It highlights their worst fears. But it also reminds us that there are good guys wearing blue that go to work for us every day to protect our families.”

Swanson continued, “I cannot say enough about our local law enforcement here in Chautauqua County. Their hard work on this case has resulted in the elimination of a real danger to our society for the next 16 years. My hope is that this man does not have the opportunity to harm one of our children again.”