Former College Cheerleader Reports to Prison After Newborn Son’s Death — Parole Eligibility Set for 2034

Laken Snelling, a former University of Kentucky cheerleader, has officially reported to prison after being sentenced in the death of her newborn son, a case that shocked the community in Lexington, Kentucky.

On October 16, 2026, Snelling, 22, received a 10-year prison sentence after pleading guilty to manslaughter, abuse of a corpse, tampering with physical evidence, and concealing the birth of an infant.

The case dates back to August 27, 2025, when roommates raised concerns and authorities discovered the newborn’s body inside a trash bag in a closet at Snelling’s residence. Investigators determined that the baby had been born alive and died from asphyxia.

During her court proceedings, Snelling admitted responsibility for her son’s death. The baby’s father and members of his family delivered emotional statements at sentencing, describing the profound grief of losing a child they had hoped to watch grow up.

Although she was sentenced to 10 years, Snelling’s sentences for the additional charges will run concurrently. According to PEOPLE, her current parole date is listed as February 21, 2034. She must serve the required portion of her sentence before becoming eligible for parole, and early release is not guaranteed.

No prison sentence can restore the life lost or erase the grief experienced by the child’s family. The case serves as a devastating reminder of the lasting consequences of choices that affect the most vulnerable.

🔗 Read the full report: https://people.com/laken-snelling-reports-to-prison-and-gets-early-parole-date-12186599