Laurel Co. parents charged with murder in infant's death

The Laurel County Sheriff's Office says that a couple will now face murder charges in the death of their 7-week old daughter.

"These parents needed to be brought to justice. We've done that. We've brought them to justice," Deputy Gilbert Acciardo told WKYT's Garrett Wymer.

Jessica Nicely, age 31, has been charged with one count of murder and two counts of criminal abuse – first-degree – child 12 or under. Gary Nicely, age 34, has been charged with one count of murder and one count of criminal abuse – first-degree – child 12 or under.

"It's a very serious offense. We have a child that's deceased now. We have another child that has two instances of broken bones that are in the healing process, so it's been abused as well. A very, very horrible case," Deputy Acciardo said,

7-week old Mia died at Kentucky Children's Hospital last week, days after being admitted. According to police, a preliminary autopsy reports she died from “non-accidental inflicted trauma.”

The baby's twin, Mya, was also been taken to Kentucky Children's Hospital after it was discovered she had injuries as well.

Gary Nicely has been in the Laurel County Detention Center since he was arrested on August 30th, when deputies say Mia was first taken to the hospital. His wife was arrested two days later. Their bond is set at $100,000.

During a hearing on Tuesday, a detective testified that the Nicelys blamed each other for the abuse.

"Most of our officers here have children or grandchildren this age or younger. It's very heartbreaking for an officer to investigate something like this. It's tough, but we have a job to do and we've got these people charged with the appropriate charges," Deputy Acciardo explained.

The couple will be arraigned on the new charges on Friday. A preliminary hearing on the murder charge is scheduled for next week.