Columbia Residents Divided on Increased Police Presence Downtown
Last Saturday marked the second weekend of increased police presence in downtown Columbia, following the September shooting that killed Stephens College student Aiyanna Williams.
Since the shooting, the City of Columbia Police Chief has increased law enforcement downtown, Mayor Barbara Buffaloe has announced plans to create a student advisory council, and the city has introduced rideshare drop-off locations to improve weekend traffic safety.
On Saturday night, an ABC 17 News reporter observed larger crowds compared to the previous week, when UM President Mun Choi walked through the area. However, the reporter noted that while police and Boone County Sheriff's deputies were still visible, there seemed to be fewer patrols than during the initial rollout.
The increased police presence included foot patrols and Boone County Sheriffs, which started around 1 a.m.
No specific quotes were available from residents or officials regarding the increased police presence.
Author's summary: Columbia residents are divided on the increased police presence downtown after a fatal shooting.