Lexington, Kentucky, December 9, 2025
Laken Snelling, a former University of Kentucky student, has been arrested following the discovery of her deceased infant in a closet at her residence. Authorities found the baby wrapped in a towel and placed in a trash bag. Charged with abuse of a corpse and other offenses, Snelling pleaded not guilty and has been released on bond while investigations continue. The case has shocked the community as details emerge regarding Snelling’s actions before the incident.
LEXINGTON, Kentucky – University of Kentucky Student Arrested After Allegedly Concealing Newborn’s Death
Laken Snelling, a 21-year-old former University of Kentucky student and member of the STUNT team, was arrested on August 31, 2025, after authorities discovered her deceased infant in a closet at her Lexington residence.
Discovery and Arrest
On August 27, 2025, Lexington police responded to a report of an unresponsive infant at Snelling’s off-campus apartment. Upon arrival, officers found the baby boy wrapped in a towel and placed inside a trash bag within a closet. The infant was pronounced dead at the scene. Snelling, identified as the mother, was arrested four days later and charged with abuse of a corpse, tampering with physical evidence, and concealing the birth of an infant. She pleaded not guilty to all charges and was released on a $100,000 bond, placed under house arrest at her parents’ home in Tennessee.
University Response
The University of Kentucky confirmed that Snelling was a senior and a member of the STUNT team at the time of the incident. Following her arrest, the university stated that Snelling had withdrawn from the institution and was no longer part of the team.
Investigation Details
Investigations revealed that Snelling had searched for terms related to concealed pregnancies on her phone prior to the incident. Additionally, deleted photos of her during labor were found, suggesting an attempt to hide evidence of the pregnancy and birth. The Fayette County Coroner’s Office is still determining the cause of the infant’s death.
Legal Proceedings
Snelling’s case was reviewed by a grand jury, which will decide whether to indict her on the charges she faces. As the legal process continues, the community remains shocked by the circumstances surrounding the infant’s death and the subsequent charges against Snelling.
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 happened to the infant?
The infant was found unresponsive in a closet, wrapped in a towel and placed inside a trash bag. The cause of death is currently undetermined.
What has happened in court so far?
Snelling appeared in court, waived her right to a preliminary hearing, and was subsequently released on bond under specific conditions.
What will happen next in the case?
The case will be reviewed by a grand jury to determine whether Snelling will be indicted on the charges against her.
Key Features of this Case
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Laken Snelling |
| Age | 21 |
| Charges | Abuse of a corpse, tampering with physical evidence, concealing the birth of an infant |
| Date of Incident | August 27, 2025 |
| Date of Arrest | August 31, 2025 |
| University Status | Withdrawn from University of Kentucky |
| Current Status | Released on $100,000 bond, under house arrest at parents’ home in Tennessee |
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