CANTON, Ohio — A dramatic encounter at a Canton Walmart ended without injuries after a shoplifting suspect allegedly pulled a gun on a police officer, according to authorities. Bodycam footage released by the Canton Police Department shows the tense moments inside the store’s loss prevention office.
On Thursday afternoon, officers arrested 21-year-old Shane Newman and 23-year-old Katerina Jeffrey on suspicion of shoplifting, Canton police said. While being processed in the loss prevention office, Newman allegedly drew a handgun and aimed it at the attending officer. Fortunately, the weapon did not fire.
The bodycam video shows Newman initially cooperating during a pat-down, telling the officer he only had his phone and a small container. After being cleared, he sat next to Jeffrey in the office. Moments later, he turned toward the officer, drew the gun, and attempted to fire. A Walmart employee quickly intervened, and the officer subdued Newman without any shots being fired.
During the confrontation, Jeffrey can be heard pleading with Newman to stop. Her voice is heard repeatedly saying, “Shane, please stop,” as the situation escalates.
Newman faces multiple charges, including attempted murder, felonious assault on a police officer, robbery, possession of drugs, and having weapons while under disability. Jeffrey was charged with complicity to commit robbery. At this time, it is unclear where Newman is being held or if he has retained legal counsel.
Canton police have urged the public to stay alert and reminded shoppers of the importance of loss prevention and officer safety in such incidents.
