Sheffielders call for more police and CCTV on streets after city centre shooting
The shooting of innocent bystander Shanice Brookes has sent shockwaves around the city of Sheffield
The fatal shooting of 30-year-old mother Shanice Brookes marks a dark chapter for the people of Sheffield and South Yorkshire as a whole.
Shanice was enjoying a night out with friends on West Street in the city centre when she was fatally shot dead outside One Four One bar in the early hours of Bank Holiday Monday.
She was a young girl in the prime of her life with everything to live for.
In the words of Detective Chief Inspector Andy Knowles: “We should all be able to go on nights out and know that we will come home safely.”
But Shanice wasn’t safe and people are calling for action.
Jemele Rhone and Deiryen Dyce have been charged over her death
Jemele Rhone, of Outram Road, Wybourn, Sheffield, is accused of murdering Shanice, possession of a handgun and possession of criminal property, namely £10,000.
Dyce, 32, of Ellesmere Road North, Burngreave, is accused of assisting an offender, possession of ammunition, possession of heroin, cocaine and cannabis with intent to supply, and possession of criminal property, namely £2,000.
In the wake of the shooting, we asked Star readers if there should be more CCTV in Sheffield city centre for safety.
It generated mixed responses with some calling for more cameras and others instead arguing for a better police presence and tougher punishments for criminals.
When asked about CCTV as a solution, David Leadbeater said: “Yes there should be more. And not only in the centre centre.”
Wendy Peat added: “Yes definitely.”
Naomi Evans said: “Definitely after what has happened in the past few days.”
Stace Bezza agreed, adding: “Yes without a doubt.”
Others, however, believe that the priority should be to have more police out on the streets at night.
Steve Hudson said: “Sheffield, like everywhere else, needs bobbies back on the street, not more surveillance.”
“More cops would make more sense,” added Roy Catherall.
Emma Brennan said: “There should be more police. Cameras don’t prevent crime.”
Tracy Mathers said: “More police on the streets and harsher sentences to make crime more of a deterrent.”
Martin Singer agreed, adding: “There should be more police, not just more cameras. A greater presence across both the day and the evening will make everyone feel safer.”