Laken Snelling: Police Discover Alleged Evidence of ‘Hidden Pregnancy’ and Deleted Photos of Cheerleader at Childbirth
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An investigation into University of Kentucky cheerleader Laken Snelling unveils shocking revelations following the discovery of a deceased newborn in her off-campus residence. The details emerged from an affidavit for a search warrant obtained by PEOPLE, shedding light on Snelling’s actions leading up to and on the day of the birth.
The court document disclosed that a search of Snelling’s phone unearthed indications of a “hidden pregnancy.” Additionally, it was alleged that Snelling had taken and later deleted images of herself during labour. The affidavit further stated that Snelling informed authorities that the infant was not breathing but later mentioned to medical staff hearing a faint “whimper.”
Facing charges of abuse of a corpse, tampering with physical evidence, and concealing the birth of an infant, Snelling could potentially face further charges pending the completion of the newborn’s autopsy. The unsealed court filing provided insights into Snelling’s online activity preceding the childbirth incident, with searches on pregnancy-related topics noted on her phone.
The Lexington Police Department’s examination of Snelling’s device reportedly found several searches pertaining to pregnancy, hinting at a possibly undisclosed or concealed pregnancy. The affidavit also highlighted the presence of photos showing Snelling in labour, engaging in activities deemed unusual for pregnant women. Investigators suspected that Snelling may have deleted these incriminating images in an attempt to conceal the birth.
Snelling, as per the affidavit, received a Miranda Warning before engaging with the police at the hospital on the day of her arrest. She allegedly admitted to giving birth in her bedroom, with the infant falling onto the floor at 4 a.m. Snelling purportedly remained awake for half an hour post-childbirth before passing out and subsequently waking to find the newborn in distress.
After tending to the baby and cleaning up, Snelling allegedly disposed of the infant in a trash bag before attending her classes and returning home, where she was apprehended by the authorities. While Snelling initially expressed doubts about the infant’s survival, conflicting statements emerged when she interacted with medical personnel at the University of Kentucky.
Following her withdrawal from the University of Kentucky, Snelling is presently under house arrest at her parents’ residence in Tennessee. Despite waiving her right to a preliminary hearing during a recent court appearance, the case has been forwarded to the grand jury for further deliberation. The charges against Snelling may evolve based on the grand jury’s decision, alongside the inconclusive findings of the newborn’s autopsy.
The unfolding case surrounding Laken Snelling has left the public in astonishment, raising questions about the circumstances leading to the tragic event. The community awaits further developments as the legal proceedings progress, with the hope that justice will prevail in uncovering the truth behind this distressing incident.