A former University of Kentucky student-athlete, Laken Snelling, 21, is facing serious charges after allegedly giving birth to a baby who was found deceased in her bedroom. According to court documents, Snelling reportedly heard the newborn “whimper” during labor before concealing the infant in a wardrobe.
Prosecutors have stated that Snelling gave birth around 4 am on August 27 and informed hospital staff at the University of Kentucky that she believed the baby was still alive as she heard the baby make sounds. The affidavit mentioned that the baby exhibited some fetal movement.
The baby was later discovered in a garbage bag inside a wardrobe in Snelling’s room. Investigators examined Snelling’s phone, revealing searches related to pregnancy topics. The court documents also mentioned that Snelling had taken photos of herself during labor and engaged in activities deemed unusual for pregnant women.
Detectives suspect that Snelling deleted photos taken during labor in an effort to hide the birth, with more potential evidence possibly removed prior to her arrest. Allegations suggest that after giving birth, the baby fell to the floor, and Snelling, after briefly waking up, found the newborn in distress. She then wrapped the baby and placed it next to her for comfort before disposing of it in a rubbish bag.
Snelling’s flatmates reportedly heard loud noises from her room during the birthing process, which Snelling attributed to fainting and falling. Following the birth, she skipped a lecture, ordered food via an app, and visited a student clinic but did not enter.
Upon investigating Snelling’s room, her flatmates found incriminating items, leading to Snelling’s arrest upon her return. Snelling pleaded not guilty to the charges at her initial hearing and later waived her right to a preliminary hearing. She is currently out on bail and under house arrest pending further legal proceedings.