We expect to learn new details this afternoon about an upcoming trial involving a high-profile alleged Columbia hazing case.
The story has been profiled nationally on ABC’s “Good Morning America” and on “Dr. Phil”. Boone County Circuit Judge Kevin Crane has scheduled a 1:30 pre-trial hearing for 22-year-old Ryan Delanty of Ballwin. His jury trial is set to begin on May 21. He’s charged with two class D felonies: hazing and second degree assault. Delanty is charged with the October 2021 Columbia incident involving Danny Santulli.
Boone County prosecutors say Santulli was hazed and forced to drink alcohol. Santulli’s family members say that he is blind and is unable to work or talk, due to the incident. Judge Crane has granted Clayton-based defense attorney Stephanie Howlett’s motion for a change of venue. The jury will be selected in western Missouri’s Warrensburg, which is about 95 miles from Columbia. Judge Crane has called 70 prospective jurors, and once the jury is selected, they’ll be transported to the Boone County Courthouse in Columbia for the trial.
The alleged incident has also prompted State Rep. Travis Smith (R-Dora) to file an anti-hazing bill called “Danny’s law” for the second straight year.