Columbia Residents Divided on Increased Police Presence Downtown
Last Saturday marked the second weekend of enhanced police presence in downtown Columbia, following the fatal shooting of Stephens College student Aiyanna Williams in September.
The increased police presence was announced by the City of Columbia Police Chief, while Mayor Barbara Buffaloe revealed plans to establish a student advisory council. Additionally, the city introduced rideshare drop-off locations to improve weekend traffic safety.
During a visit to the downtown area 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 and others noted that while police and Boone County Sheriff's deputies were still visible, there appeared to be fewer patrols than during the initial rollout.
The patrols, which included increased foot patrols and Boone County Sheriffs, began around 1 a.m.
No direct quotes were available from residents or officials regarding the increased police presence.
Author's summary: Columbia residents are split on the increased police presence downtown after a fatal shooting.