Kentucky State Police Arrest two Smiths Grove Residents for Criminal Abuse

SMITHS GROVE, Ky. (April 23, 2026) – The Kentucky State Police, Post 03, Bowling Green, have arrested two Smiths Grove residents for Criminal Abuse of an infant. 

On April 23, 2026, the Kentucky State Police Post 03 received a call from the Indiana State Police about a two-month-old infant who had been dropped off at a family member’s home in Salem, Indiana, by the parents. The family member immediately took the infant to St. Vincent Hospital in Indiana due to the condition of the child. Due to the severity of injuries, the infant was later air-lifted to Norton’s Children’s Hospital in Louisville.

After a thorough investigation and joint effort by the Kentucky State Police and the Indiana State Police, arrest warrants were obtained for Aurora Hamilton, 21, of Smiths Grove, and Benjamin Reale, 18, of Smiths Grove. Ms. Hamilton and Mr. Reale were both charged with Criminal Abuse 1st degree (victim under 12), and endangering the welfare of a minor. 

Ms. Hamilton and Mr. Reale are both lodged in the Jackson County Detention Center in Indiana, awaiting extradition. The investigation is ongoing and is being led by Detective Aaron Hampton. 

# # #