Trial Set for April for Dog Breeder Melissa Sanders
A new trial date has been set for a Columbia-area woman accused in the deaths of nearly 30 dogs at a breeding and boarding facility.
Melissa Sanders is now scheduled to stand trial April 26 in Boone County Circuit Court. The five-day trial has been postponed twice, with her attorney telling the judge Monday that the defense is nearing the end of its evidence gathering and witness preparation.
Sanders faces 14 animal abuse charges, including 13 felonies, after investigators found nearly 30 dogs starving, tortured or strangled at her facility in November 2025.
She has remained in jail since her arrest. If convicted on all charges, Sanders could face up to 53 years in prison.
A pretrial conference is scheduled for March 8.
