A woman from Saginaw has been ruled mentally competent to stand trial after allegedly shooting her boyfriend six times during an argument.
Court Finds Defendant Competent
Darnisha M. Sanders, 34, appeared in court on March 30, where Darnell Jackson determined she is fit to proceed with trial.
The evaluation was conducted by the Center for Forensic Psychiatry, which concluded Sanders understands the charges against her and can participate in her defense.
Charges and Custody Status
Sanders is currently held at the Saginaw County Jail on a $500,000 bond.
She faces several serious charges, including:
- Assault with intent to murder
- Discharging a firearm at or in a building
- Two counts of felony firearm
The primary charge carries the possibility of a life sentence.
Details of the Shooting Incident
Prosecutors say the shooting occurred in September 2025 at an apartment on Maple Street.
According to evidence presented in court:
- Sanders allegedly called 911 and admitted to shooting the victim
- She claimed he had been “antagonizing” her
- The victim, 43, was shot six times
Investigators recovered a .22-caliber pistol and spent shell casings from the scene.
Disturbing 911 Call Played in Court
During a preliminary hearing, jurors heard a recording of the 911 call in which Sanders allegedly:
- Spoke calmly with dispatchers after the shooting
- Made remarks toward the injured victim
- Indicated she would have caused more harm if she had more ammunition
The wounded man could reportedly be heard in the background asking for help.
Victim’s Condition and Relationship History
The victim survived but suffered gunshot wounds to multiple parts of his body, including:
- Face and neck
- Shoulder and hand
- Knee and shin
He later told investigators the couple had an on-and-off relationship for eight years, and the shooting followed an argument involving infidelity.
What’s Next
Sanders remains in custody as she awaits a trial date.