Kentucky State Police discovered the decomposed body of 8-month-old Miya Rudd hidden inside a rural Ohio County home, culminating in a tragic end to a months-long search effort. Miya had not been seen since April, but authorities only learned of her disappearance in June, sparking a widespread investigation.

Parents Arrested on Multiple Charges

Miya’s parents, Tesla Tucker (29) and Cage Rudd (30), were apprehended and face charges including drug possession, child abuse, and abandonment of a minor. Their arrest followed a welfare check at their residence, where Miya was supposed to be located, but was not found.

Extended Family Involvement

The investigation expanded beyond Miya’s parents to include her paternal grandparents, Billie J. Smith and Ricky Smith. Billie Smith faced arrest related to domestic violence, while Ricky Smith was charged with child abandonment and drug offenses. Additionally, Miya’s maternal grandparents, Taletha Tucker (50) and David Tucker (53), were arrested on unrelated charges in Daviess County.

Drug Trafficking Uncovered

During the search for Miya, Kentucky State Police uncovered evidence of a drug trafficking operation linked to the Rudd-Tucker family. Brodie Payne was arrested on numerous drug charges connected to this illicit activity, highlighting the scope of criminality discovered during the investigation.

Community and Law Enforcement Response

The Ohio County community expressed shock and dismay over the tragic outcome, emphasizing the impact of Miya’s disappearance on local residents. KSP Trooper Corey King lamented the lack of cooperation from Miya’s family, complicating the search efforts significantly.

Investigation and Recovery Efforts

KSP deployed cadaver dogs and conducted extensive searches across multiple locations in Ohio County to locate Miya’s remains. The discovery of her decomposed body marked a somber conclusion to the intensive investigative efforts undertaken by law enforcement.

Emotional Impact

Local resident Angie Johnson conveyed the community’s profound sadness and disbelief, echoing sentiments of devastation felt throughout Ohio County. The loss of Miya Rudd has deeply affected those who knew of the ongoing search and hoped for a different outcome.

Conclusion: A Tragic Discovery

The discovery of Miya Rudd’s remains inside her family’s Ohio County home has not only brought closure to a high-profile missing person case but has also exposed a network of criminal activity within the community. The full extent of the investigation underscores the challenges faced by law enforcement in such cases, emphasizing the need for vigilance and community support in safeguarding vulnerable individuals.

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