Man Sentenced to 20 Years for Aiding in Kidnapping and Murder

Anthony Neubauer convicted of cold case crime in Buffalo, New York

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A 39-year-old man from Falconer, New York named Anthony Neubauer was sentenced to 20 years in prison for his role in aiding and abetting a kidnapping that led to a cold case murder in 2014. Neubauer and another man, Matthew Rudy, kidnapped the victim, Joseph Anthony, under the false pretense of providing him cocaine, before taking him to Pennsylvania and shooting and killing him.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in solving cold case crimes, especially those involving kidnapping and murder. It also demonstrates the serious consequences for those who participate in such violent acts, even if they are not the direct perpetrators of the killing.

The details

According to court documents, on May 27, 2014, Neubauer and Rudy kidnapped Joseph Anthony and traveled with him from Jamestown, New York to Rudy's property in Pennsylvania. They had tricked Anthony into making the trip by offering him cocaine. Once in Pennsylvania, Neubauer and Rudy told Anthony they did not actually have any cocaine, before shooting and killing him and burying his body on Rudy's property. Rudy was previously convicted and sentenced for his role in the crime.

  • On May 27, 2014, Neubauer and Rudy kidnapped Joseph Anthony.
  • On February 25, 2026, Neubauer was sentenced to 20 years in prison.

The players

Anthony Neubauer

A 39-year-old man from Falconer, New York who was convicted of aiding and abetting the kidnapping that led to a cold case murder in 2014.

Matthew Rudy

Another man involved in the kidnapping and murder who was previously convicted and sentenced for his role in the crime.

Joseph Anthony

The victim who was kidnapped and killed by Neubauer and Rudy in 2014.

Elizabeth A. Wolford

The U.S. District Judge who sentenced Neubauer to 20 years in prison.

Michael DiGiacomo

The U.S. Attorney who announced Neubauer's sentencing.

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What they’re saying

“This case highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in solving cold case crimes, especially those involving kidnapping and murder.”

— Michael DiGiacomo, U.S. Attorney

What’s next

The judge's decision on Neubauer's sentence concludes the legal proceedings in this cold case crime.

The takeaway

This sentencing serves as a reminder of the serious consequences for those who participate in violent acts, even if they are not the direct perpetrators. It also underscores the importance of persistent law enforcement efforts to solve cold case crimes and bring justice to victims and their families.