Statewide Search Underway for Missing Kentucky Baby; Five Arrested, Including Grandmother

Statewide Search Underway for Missing Kentucky Baby; Five Arrested, Including Grandmother

2 minute read
Published: 6/13/2024

The disappearance of 8-month-old Miya Tucker has prompted a statewide search in Kentucky, as authorities work diligently to uncover her whereabouts. Miya has not been seen since late April, and her case has led to the arrest of five individuals, including her parents and grandparents.

Miya Tucker's parents, Tesla Tucker and Cale (Cage) Rudd, were arrested on June 6 on multiple felony drug charges and for abandonment of a minor. Shortly after, more arrests were made within the family circle. On June 7, Miya's grandfather, Ricky Smith, was taken into custody on charges including trafficking in controlled substances, child abuse, and abandonment of a minor.

The case became further complicated when Miya's grandmother, Billie J. Smith, was apprehended on June 9. She faces a second-degree domestic violence assault charge and had an active warrant from October. During her arrest, another individual, Timothy Roach, was found at her residence and arrested on multiple drug charges (NY Post).

During the investigation, conflicting information has posed challenges. Miya's parents initially claimed that family services had taken her, but this assertion was proven to be false. In reality, family services had planned to take Miya to join her siblings, who had previously been removed from the home due to drug-related issues (NY Post).

Adding to the concern, Miya had tested positive for methamphetamine at birth, spotlighting significant risks to her health and safety.

Despite the arrests and continuous efforts to locate the missing infant, police have not yet uncovered any evidence to confirm whether Miya is alive or deceased. The investigation remains open, and authorities urge anyone with pertinent information to come forward.

Miya Tucker is described as having brown hair and green eyes (USA Today). The urgent search for her has now garnered significant attention from both law enforcement and the public.

The multiple arrests and the various leads pointing in different directions underscore the complexity of Miya Tucker's case. While her fate remains uncertain, the ongoing investigation aims to shed light on her disappearance and, ultimately, bring her to safety.

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