Shane C.L. Newman Charged After Alleged Walmart Theft and Attempted Shooting of Canton Police Officer [VIDEO]

Canton, Ohio — A Plain Township man is facing multiple felony charges after authorities say he attempted to shoot a Canton police officer during a shoplifting investigation at a Walmart store, an incident that was captured on police body camera video.

According to the Canton Police Department, Shane C.L. Newman, 21, and Katerina D. Jeffrey, 23, both of Canton, were arrested Thursday afternoon at the Walmart located at 3200 Atlantic Blvd. NE.

What Police Say Happened

Officers were called to the store around 1:45 p.m. for a report of stolen merchandise. Newman and Jeffrey were taken to the store’s loss prevention office, where an officer was questioning them.

Police said that while seated on a couch next to Jeffrey, Newman suddenly reached into his clothing, pulled out a loaded handgun, and aimed it at the officer’s head. Body camera footage reportedly shows Newman pulling the trigger, but the weapon malfunctioned and did not fire.

A Walmart asset protection employee immediately intervened, jumping on Newman. The officer assisted in subduing him, and Newman was taken to the ground and handcuffed after a brief struggle. No injuries were reported, police said.

In the body camera footage, the officer can be heard explaining that he avoided firing his own weapon to prevent accidentally hitting the Walmart employee who was restraining Newman.

Charges Filed

Court records show Newman is charged with:

• Attempted murder of a police officer

• Felonious assault

• Robbery

• Drug possession

• Having weapons while under disability

Police said Newman was legally prohibited from possessing a firearm due to prior felony convictions, including a 2023 conviction for aggravated drug possession and illegally conveying drugs into a government facility.

Following his arrest, officers reported recovering approximately 50 blue pills, later identified as MDMA (Molly).

Jeffrey has been charged with complicity to commit robbery in connection with the alleged theft.

Court Appearance and Bonds

Both suspects appeared in Canton Municipal Court on Friday. Judge Mary A. Falvey set Newman’s bond at $1 million and Jeffrey’s bond at $500,000. The judge also ordered both defendants to have no contact with Walmart or the involved officer.

They are scheduled to return to court on December 23.

Statements from Officials

Canton Police Chief John Gabbard called the incident a stark reminder of the dangers officers face.

“This incident highlights the ever-present threat of violence against police officers,” Gabbard said. “We are grateful that no one was injured.”

Walmart also released a statement praising the actions of its employee.

“The safety and security of our customers and associates is always a top priority,” said Jessie Carpenter, Walmart Asset Protection Operations Coach. “We’re proud of the quick response by our associate and will continue cooperating with law enforcement.”

Ongoing Investigation

Police continue to investigate the case. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Canton Police Department at 330-649-5800 or 330-489-3144.