Grandfather and parents charged in missing baby case expect in court Monday
OHIO COUNTY, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) -The family saga surrounding the disappearance of eight-month-old Miya Tucker Rudd in Ohio County has taken a new turn, with the grandparents now facing charges alongside the parents as the search for the infant continues.
Kentucky State Police initiated the investigation after Miya Tucker Rudd was reported missing last week following a welfare check at a residence in Reynolds Station. During the search for the baby, troopers discovered an outstanding warrant for assault and domestic violence against the infant’s grandmother, 49-year-old Billie Smith. Smith was subsequently arrested at her home.
Meanwhile, the baby’s grandfather, 56-year-old Ricky Smith, was arrested last week on a slew of charges, including child abuse, abandonment, organized crime, and drug trafficking. The baby’s parents, 29-year-old Tesla Tucker and 30-year-old Cage Rudd, were arrested Thursday on similar charges. Court records indicate that Ricky Smith, Tucker, and Rudd are scheduled for arraignment Monday morning.
Adding to the complexity of the situation, a fifth suspect, 37-year-old Timothy Roach, was also arrested on drug charges Sunday night outside the Smiths’ residence. Troopers observed Roach allegedly discarding drugs under his car as they arrived at the Smiths’ driveway.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities continue their efforts to locate Miya Tucker Rudd, hoping for her safe return amidst the ongoing legal proceedings involving multiple family members.
