Authorities in Lexington, Kentucky, are investigating a troubling case involving a newborn found shortly after birth. Laken Snelling, the mother, is facing serious accusations related to her infant’s death. Reports from the Lexington Police Department indicate that the baby appeared to be full term when discovered.
Incident Overview
On August 27, at around 4 a.m., Snelling gave birth. Her roommates noted hearing loud noises during this time. After the birth, Snelling mentioned to medical staff that the baby made a faint sound but expressed doubt about whether the infant was alive.
Investigative Findings
- Search warrants revealed Snelling’s social media activity included pregnancy-related content.
- The police suspect that Snelling may have deleted crucial evidence about her pregnancy and the newborn’s birth.
- Witnesses reported loud noises coming from Snelling’s room, raising their concerns about her condition.
Timeline of Events
Following the birth, Snelling allegedly passed out on top of the baby. She claimed to have found the infant turning blue and wrapped him in a towel, believing he was deceased. Subsequently, she placed both the baby and the placenta into a black trash bag stored in her closet.
By 8:40 a.m., Snelling informed her roommates that she had fainted, attributing the noise to her fall. Rather than attending a scheduled class, she ordered food via the McDonald’s app and collected it before heading to the university clinic but ultimately returned home without entering the clinic.
Discovery and Arrest
Snelling’s roommates grew increasingly wary of her situation. They entered her room, where they found a blood-soaked towel and a plastic bag containing signs of childbirth. This discovery prompted them to contact the authorities.
Law enforcement later arrested Snelling, who is now facing charges of abuse of a corpse. Notably, she is no longer enrolled at the University of Kentucky as these developments unfold.
Conclusion
This case raises significant concerns regarding prenatal care, mental health, and the responsibilities of new parents. Investigations are ongoing, and further details will emerge as authorities continue their work.
