A grand jury in Fayette County, Kentucky, has indicted former University of Kentucky student Laken Snelling on a first-degree manslaughter charge related to the death of her newborn child. Authorities also issued an arrest warrant following the indictment as the investigation into the infant’s death continues.
The case gained attention after investigators determined the baby had been born alive before being found dead inside a trash bag in a closet at Snelling’s residence.
Grand Jury Indicts Snelling on Manslaughter
According to investigators, the grand jury returned the indictment on March 10, 2026, adding a manslaughter charge to several earlier accusations connected to the incident. Snelling had already faced allegations including abuse of a corpse, tampering with physical evidence, and concealing the birth of an infant.
Police previously discovered the newborn wrapped in a towel and placed inside a trash bag in a closet after roommates reported unusual signs and contacted authorities. The child was pronounced dead at the scene after officers responded to the residence.
Autopsy Findings Led to More Serious Charge
Medical examiners later determined that the infant had been born alive but died from asphyxia by undetermined means, which prompted prosecutors to pursue the more serious manslaughter charge.
Investigators say Snelling admitted she had given birth alone in her bedroom and later attempted to clean up the area. Court filings also indicate that the newborn’s body was eventually placed in a trash bag along with other materials connected to the birth.
Under Kentucky law, a conviction for first-degree manslaughter could lead to a prison sentence of up to 10–20 years, in addition to possible penalties from the other charges.
Arrest Warrant Issued as Case Moves Forward
Following the indictment, authorities issued a formal arrest warrant for Snelling. She had previously been living under house arrest in Tennessee after her initial arrest in 2025.
Officials say the case will proceed through the court system in the coming weeks, where prosecutors will present evidence connected to the newborn’s death.
