What led to her arrest?

Her arrest followed the discovery of her newborn baby's body in a black trash bag inside her closet after police received a report of an unresponsive infant.

What is known about the infant's condition at the time of discovery?

The infant was pronounced dead at the scene, with authorities estimating it had been deceased for approximately three to four hours.

What have the autopsy results revealed?

The autopsy led to inconclusive findings regarding the cause of death, with further studies pending.

What status does Laken Snelling hold at the University of Kentucky?

Snelling is no longer enrolled at the University of Kentucky and is not a member of the cheer team following her arrest.

What will happen next in the legal process?

Snelling has pleaded not guilty and waived her right to a preliminary hearing, allowing the case to move forward to a grand jury.

October 12, 2025

University of Kentucky Cheerleader Arrested in Tragic Case

Lexington, Kentucky, October 12, 2025

News Summary

Laken Snelling, a cheerleader from the University of Kentucky, has been arrested on multiple charges, including abuse of a corpse and tampering with evidence. This follows the discovery of her newborn baby’s body in a trash bag at her residence. The investigation reveals Snelling’s confession about disposing of the remains after giving birth, raising serious concerns about concealed pregnancies. The case has gained significant public attention and will proceed to a grand jury after her plea of not guilty.

Lexington, Kentucky – University of Kentucky Cheerleader Arrested

Laken Snelling, a 21-year-old cheerleader from the University of Kentucky, was arrested on August 30 and faces multiple charges including abuse of a corpse, tampering with physical evidence, and concealing the birth of an infant. The arrest follows the tragic discovery of Snelling’s newborn baby’s body, which was found wrapped in a towel inside a black trash bag located in her closet.

The police were alerted to the scene after receiving reports of an unresponsive infant on August 27. Upon arrival, authorities pronounced the newborn dead at the scene, estimating that the baby had been deceased for approximately three to four hours. An autopsy was conducted, but results remained inconclusive regarding the cause of death, pending further studies.

Details of the Investigation

During the investigation, Snelling confessed to giving birth and subsequently disposing of the remains in a trash bag. Following her arrest, she was released on a $100,000 bond on September 2 and placed under house arrest at her parents’ home in Jefferson City, Tennessee. Snelling has entered a plea of not guilty to the charges and has waived her right to a preliminary hearing scheduled for September 26, allowing the case to proceed to a grand jury.

Snelling’s Background

Snelling was a notable member of the University of Kentucky’s STUNT cheer team for three years, earning recognition on the Southeastern Conference Spring Honor Roll. However, following her arrest, the university confirmed that she is no longer enrolled as a student or a member of the cheer team.

Roommate Accounts and Further Investigations

Reports from Snelling’s roommates indicate that they heard loud noises emanating from her room on the night of the birth but were unaware of her pregnancy. Additionally, Snelling reportedly claimed to have heard the baby “whimper” after birth, suggesting that the newborn may not have been stillborn.

Authorities also uncovered evidence from Snelling’s phone, revealing internet searches related to concealed pregnancies and labor. Investigators are working diligently to establish whether the baby was born alive, stillborn, or whether the infant’s death resulted from a miscarriage. The case has attracted significant public interest, highlighting concerns regarding concealed pregnancies and the circumstances surrounding the infant’s tragic death.

Community Response

The incident has sparked discussions within the Lexington community and beyond about the challenges and complexities surrounding unplanned pregnancies and the psychological and social factors involved. As the investigation continues, many are looking for answers and clarity regarding the events that unfolded.

FAQ

What charges is Laken Snelling facing?: Laken Snelling is charged with abuse of a corpse, tampering with physical evidence, and concealing the birth of an infant.
What led to her arrest?: Her arrest followed the discovery of her newborn baby’s body in a black trash bag inside her closet after police received a report of an unresponsive infant.
What is known about the infant’s condition at the time of discovery?: The infant was pronounced dead at the scene, with authorities estimating it had been deceased for approximately three to four hours.
What have the autopsy results revealed?: The autopsy led to inconclusive findings regarding the cause of death, with further studies pending.
What status does Laken Snelling hold at the University of Kentucky?: Snelling is no longer enrolled at the University of Kentucky and is not a member of the cheer team following her arrest.
What will happen next in the legal process?: Snelling has pleaded not guilty and waived her right to a preliminary hearing, allowing the case to move forward to a grand jury.