Shocking Allegations in South Tampa (33629) : Florida Dentist Accused of Poisoning Wife’s Smoothies Faces Jury – TRIAL UNDERWAY IN TAMPA

South Tampa (33629) –  A case that has gripped the Tampa Bay area and gained national attention is now heading to trial, as a once-respected dentist stands accused of fatally poisoning his wife — allegedly by lacing her morning smoothies with toxic drugs. Jury selection began Monday in the high-profile murder case of Dr. Steven Klein, 47, who prosecutors say used a calculated method to end his 39-year-old wife Melissa’s life under the guise of marital bliss.

According to court records, Melissa, a well-known yoga instructor and mother of two, died in March 2023 after collapsing in the couple’s upscale South Tampa home. Initially believed to be a sudden cardiac event, her death raised red flags for investigators when a toxicology report revealed the presence of colchicine — a medication used to treat gout but lethal in high doses.

Key Facts

• BREAKING: Dentist’s murder trial begins in Tampa for wife’s alleged smoothie poisoning

• IMPACT: 1 woman dead; defendant faces life sentence if convicted

• OFFICIAL SOURCE: “This was premeditated murder disguised as morning routine” – ASA Lila Hernandez

• ACTION: Public urged to follow trial developments; support domestic violence awareness

Prosecutors allege Dr. Klein crushed the pills into Melissa’s smoothies over a period of days, citing mounting financial pressures and an extramarital affair as motives. The defense maintains that the death was accidental and unrelated to the defendant’s conduct.

Hyperlocal Impact

1. Precise Location:
   South Tampa (33629) – Trial underway at Hillsborough County Courthouse on Twiggs Street

2. Community Connection:
   “Melissa was full of light. This has torn our community apart.”
   (Attribution: – Claire Donovan, fellow yoga instructor and friend of the victim)

“This was no accident,” said Assistant State Attorney Lila Hernandez during opening statements. “This was premeditated murder disguised as morning routine.”

The trial, expected to last three weeks, has drawn intense media coverage and sparked widespread debate on domestic violence hidden behind wealth and appearances. If convicted, Klein faces life in prison without parole. Family members of the victim say they’re hoping for justice — and healing.

Exclusive Angle

• WHY THIS MATTERS NOW:
  The trial shines a spotlight on so-called “invisible” domestic violence — cases where no physical abuse is evident, but emotional, psychological, and even fatal harm are inflicted behind closed doors. Experts say Melissa’s death is part of a rising trend: affluent, educated couples where abuse hides under the surface. Hillsborough County has seen a 22% increase in domestic homicide investigations since 2022, many involving professionals with no prior criminal records.

Crisis Response

• IMMEDIATE RESOURCES:
  » The Spring of Tampa Bay: 813-247-7233 
  » Florida Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-500-1119

• OFFICIAL GUIDANCE:
  “If you suspect someone is in a controlling or abusive relationship, don’t stay silent.”
  (Attribution: – Sheriff Chad Chronister, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office)

Update Log

• 8:30 AM: Jury selection begins at Hillsborough County Courthouse

• 9:45 AM: Opening statements delivered; prosecution alleges financial motive and affair

• 11:00 AM: Defense denies murder, calls death a “tragic coincidence”

• 1:20 PM: Autopsy report introduced into evidence; court adjourned until Wednesday morning