Ex-UK Student’s Chilling Guilty Plea in Baby’s Death
Former University of Kentucky Student Pleads Guilty in Baby’s Death Case
What Happened?
A former University of Kentucky student named Laken Snelling has admitted in court that she is responsible for her baby’s death. This happened in Lexington, Kentucky, and the case has been covered by local news station WKYT.
Important: This article discusses a serious and sad legal case involving the death of an infant. The information comes from public court records and news reports.
The Charges She Admitted To
Laken Snelling pleaded guilty to four separate crimes:
- First-degree manslaughter — This means she caused the death of her baby, but it wasn’t planned ahead of time (which would be murder).
- Abuse of a corpse — She mistreated the baby’s body after death.
- Tampering with physical evidence — She tried to hide or destroy evidence related to the case.
- Concealing the birth of an infant — She hid the fact that she had given birth.
What She Did, In Simple Terms
According to court records and what she said in court:
- She hid her pregnancy and the birth from everyone.
- After the baby was born, she ended the baby’s life instead of getting help.
- She put the baby’s body inside a plastic bag.
- Then she hid the bag in a closet.
In her own words in court, she admitted to "ending" her baby’s life "instead of helping him."
Important Point: This case involves a very young infant. The details are heartbreaking. If you or someone you know is struggling with pregnancy, parenting, or mental health, there are free, confidential resources available 24/7.
What Punishment Is Being Recommended?
The prosecutors (the lawyers representing the state) have recommended the following prison time:
| Charge | Recommended Sentence |
|---|---|
| First-degree manslaughter | 10 years |
| Abuse of a corpse | 1 year |
| Tampering with physical evidence | 1 year |
| Concealing the birth of an infant | 12 months (1 year) |
Total recommended time: Up to 13 years in prison.
Note: The judge will make the final decision on sentencing. The judge can follow these recommendations, give more time, or give less time.
Background on the Case
This case has been in the news before:
- March 10, 2026 — Snelling was first indicted (formally charged) in connection with the baby’s death.
- March 13, 2026 — Court files revealed more details, including a Snapchat warrant and statements from roommates.
Helpful Resources
If this story brings up difficult feelings, or if you or someone you know needs support:
| Resource | Contact |
|---|---|
| National Suicide Prevention Lifeline | Call or text 988 |
| Crisis Text Line | Text HOME to 741741 |
| Postpartum Support International | 1-800-944-4773 (call or text) |
| Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline | 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453) |
| Safe Haven Baby Boxes (for surrendering a newborn safely) | Visit shbb.org |
Did You Know? All 50 states have Safe Haven Laws that allow a parent to safely surrender a newborn (usually up to 30 days old) at a hospital, fire station, or other designated location — no questions asked, no legal consequences.
Summary
- Laken Snelling, a former UK student, pleaded guilty to four charges related to her baby’s death.
- She admitted to hiding the birth, ending the baby’s life, and hiding the body in a plastic bag in a closet.
- Prosecutors are asking for up to 13 years in prison.
- The judge will decide the final sentence at a later date.
- This case highlights the importance of mental health support and safe surrender options for parents in crisis.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What does "pleaded guilty" mean?
It means Laken Snelling stood in front of a judge and officially said, "Yes, I did these things." She gave up her right to a trial where a jury would decide.
2. What’s the difference between manslaughter and murder?
Murder usually means the person planned to kill ahead of time. Manslaughter means the person caused a death, but without planning it in advance — often in the "heat of the moment" or through reckless actions.
3. Can the judge give a different sentence than what prosecutors recommended?
Yes. The prosecutor’s recommendation is just that — a suggestion. The judge can give more time, less time, or even probation (though that’s very unlikely in a case this serious).
4. What is a "Safe Haven Law"?
These laws let a parent safely give up a newborn baby (usually within the first few days or weeks of life) at a safe place like a hospital or fire station — without getting in trouble. The baby gets medical care and is placed for adoption.
5. Where can someone go if they’re pregnant and scared or overwhelmed?
There are free, confidential, 24/7 resources:
- Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)
- Text HOME to 741741 (Crisis Text Line)
- Call 1-800-944-4773 (Postpartum Support International)
- Visit shbb.org for Safe Haven locations
This article is based on public reporting by WKYT and court records. Copyright 2026 WKYT. All rights reserved.