Judge has Set Preliminary Hearing Date For Ashlee Buzzard

LOMPOC, Calif. (KEYT) - Ashlee Buzzard appeared in court this afternoon to set a date for a preliminary hearing.

The Vandenberg Village woman is accused of killing her 9-year-old daughter Melodee Buzzard in 2025.

Earlier in May, judges denied 2 motions made by Buzzard’s attorney, Erica Sutherland.

They ruled the defense had received enough forensic evidence to proceed with the case, and that a search warrant used to find evidence was supported by probable cause.

Having pled not guilty to first-degree murder, Buzzard waived additional time for a speedy trial through the month of September.

Judge Stephen Dunkle said he’ll be moving to Department 7, and will be taking the case with him.

He scheduled Buzzard’s preliminary hearing for June 22nd in Department 7 at the Santa Maria courthouse.

The Latest Breaking News, Weather Alerts, Sports and More Anytime On Our Mobile Apps. Keep Up With The Latest Articles by Signing Up for the News Channel 3-12 Newsletter.