A Polo woman has been charged in Caldwell County with 21 misdemeanor counts of animal neglect and abandonment following an investigation that authorities say uncovered severely malnourished dogs kept in dangerous winter conditions. Each charge is classified as a Class C misdemeanor and stems from alleged conduct between Jan. 26 and Jan. 28, 2026. Prosecutors contend Martin knowingly failed to provide adequate care by not supplying food to 21 dogs in her custody, resulting in substantial harm to the animals. According to a probable cause affidavit filed by the Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded late Jan. 26 to a report of possible animal neglect. On Jan. 28, court documents state Martin relinquished ownership of the dogs to the State of Missouri Humane Society.