The coroner has released an update regarding the case of a college cheerleader whose newborn was found dead in a trash bag. Laken Snelling faces multiple charges as investigation continues.
A coroner has provided an update following the tragic discovery of a newborn found dead in a trash bag in the student room of a college cheerleader. The incident has shaken the community, and the investigation is ongoing as authorities search for answers.
Laken Snelling, a former member of the University of Kentucky’s competitive STUNT cheerleading team, appeared in court on Tuesday, September 2, where she pleaded not guilty to charges of concealing the birth of a child, tampering with physical evidence, and abuse of a corpse.
The case began when officers from the Lexington Police Department were called to a residence on Park Avenue on August 30. They responded to reports of an unresponsive infant. Tragically, the baby was pronounced dead at the scene around 10:30 a.m. The cause of death has not been determined yet, and an autopsy revealed that the baby was a boy.
According to the arrest citation, the infant was found wrapped in a towel inside a black trash bag. Snelling allegedly confessed to concealing the birth and disposed of both the infant and the cleaning materials used to hide evidence in the same trash bag.
It remains unclear whether Snelling experienced a miscarriage, stillbirth, or gave birth. Investigators continue to seek clarity on the circumstances surrounding the infant’s death before it was discarded in the trash.
Fayette County Coroner Gary Ginn emphasized the importance of conducting a thorough and methodical investigation. He said, “I understand the community’s concern and sensitivity surrounding the death of a child. We are conducting a thorough and methodical death investigation to ensure all facts are carefully considered.”
Before her arrest, Snelling had posted a TikTok video expressing her aspirations for the year ahead, including emojis suggesting she may have been planning for a future involving a home and children. The tragic events have left many in the community in disbelief.
Snelling, who could face up to $10,000 in fines and between one to five years in jail if found guilty of the charges, is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on September 26. These charges stem from the Class D felony offense under Kentucky law.
The University of Kentucky issued a statement confirming that Snelling had been a member of the STUNT team for three seasons. However, they directed all further inquiries to the Lexington Police Department.
If you or someone you know is struggling with bereavement, The Compassionate Friends provides support at (877) 969-0010.
Tags: Laken Snelling, University of Kentucky, Crime News, Lexington, Kentucky, Newborn Death, STUNT Team, TikTok, Child Abuse, Legal Update
