Former University of Kentucky cheerleader Laken Snelling is facing serious charges after her newborn son was found dead in her closet back in August. The Kentucky Medical Examiner’s Office determined that the baby was born alive and died from asphyxia by undetermined means, leading to Snelling being indicted on first-degree manslaughter.
Initially, Snelling was charged with abuse of a corpse, tampering with physical evidence, and concealing the birth of an infant. She pleaded not guilty to these charges and has been under house arrest at her family home in Tennessee. Following her arrest, Snelling withdrew from the University of Kentucky and is no longer part of the STUNT team.
The 21-year-old could face up to 20 years in prison for the first-degree manslaughter charge, with an additional 11 years for the remaining charges if she is found guilty. The incident took place in Snelling’s off-campus house in Lexington, where she gave birth to a baby boy in the early hours of the morning on August 27.
Her roommates, who suspected she was concealing a pregnancy, heard strange noises coming from her room that morning. After the birth, Snelling allegedly cleaned up the scene, showered, and left the house to go to McDonald’s, skipping her classes and a visit to the school clinic. Her roommates discovered the newborn in a plastic bag in a closet and called 911.
Upon her return, Snelling was arrested by the police. Initially, she claimed the baby fell on the floor after birth and she didn’t think he was breathing. She later admitted to wrapping the baby up and laying next to it for comfort. Despite her initial claims, medical staff stated that the newborn showed signs of movement and made noises after birth.
Snelling also allegedly took photos during labor but deleted them to hide the birth. Investigators believe other images may have been destroyed before her arrest. The case has caused shock and disbelief among the community and raises questions about the circumstances surrounding the tragic death of the newborn. The legal proceedings will determine Snelling’s fate as she faces the serious charges brought against her.
