Boone County Prosecuting Attorney Roger Johnson said Wednesday evening he is launching an internal review of cases involving weapon offenses in downtown Columbia.
Johnson was involved in talks with city leaders in Columbia, including Mayor Barbara Buffaloe and UM System President Mun Choi, regarding downtown safety and violent crime following a Saturday shooting on East Broadway that left one person dead and two others injured.
Stephens College senior Aiyanna Williams died Sunday after being struck by gunfire in the incident. A man from Florida has been arrested and charged with felonies including second-degree murder.
A news release from Johnson's office said the review will also include trespass, peace disturbance and misdemeanor assault.
Johnson's announcement is the latest announcement from leaders involved in the discussions this week over violent crime.
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Choi and Buffaloe released a joint statement Wednesday afternoon listing 11 action items local officials decided on after meeting this week. The Columbia Police Department also provided more information Wednesday about its presence downtown on weekends. Police Chief Jill Schlude said in a letter to the community released Tuesday that CPD is exploring the reestablishment of a dedicated downtown unit.
The review is designed to aggressively address violent crime and chronic repeat offenders, which are priorities for the prosecuting attorney's office, according to the news release. Johnson said that, through the review, he will confirm that staff recommendations align with those priorities.
"Progress will be limited if everyone just looks to other agencies for solutions," Johnson said in the release. "I want to look inward and ensure our office is carrying out its priorities consistently, effectively, and transparently. That's how we build trust with the community."