University of Kentucky Student Arrested After Dead Infant Found in Closet

Laken Snelling, a 21-year-old senior and member of the University of Kentucky's Stunt team, has been arrested and charged with abuse of a corpse, tampering with physical evidence, and concealing the birth of an infant after authorities discovered a deceased baby wrapped in a towel inside a black trash bag in a closet at her residence. Police responded to a call about an unresponsive infant and found the baby’s body on August 27; Snelling admitted to giving birth and attempting to clean up and hide evidence of the birth. The Fayette County Coroner's Office is currently investigating the infant's cause of death. Snelling appeared in court for a preliminary hearing, and her arraignment was scheduled for September 2. The charges she faces are classified as Class D felonies in Kentucky, carrying possible prison time and fines. The University of Kentucky confirmed her enrollment and participation on the competitive Stunt team, clarifying that this sport is distinct from the cheerleading squads, although related in skills.