Retrial of Former Ohio Sheriff's Deputy Jason Meade in Casey Goodson Jr. Shooting Sparks Renewed Calls for Police Accountability
The retrial of former Ohio sheriff's deputy Jason Meade, who is charged with murder and reckless homicide in the shooting of Casey Goodson Jr., a Black man, is set to begin with opening statements on Thursday. Goodson was shot multiple times in the back while entering his grandmother's house, sparking protests in Columbus. The lack of body cameras or dash cameras in the sheriff's office raised concerns about transparency.
This new trial follows a mistrial declared in 2024 after a jury couldn't reach a verdict in the original trial where Meade faced the same charges. Meade claimed that Goodson waved a gun at him, leading to a pursuit and eventual shooting as Goodson entered his grandmother's home. Goodson, who was not the target of the fugitive search Meade was involved in, was shot six times, including five times in the back.
The shooting occurred on December 4, 2020, as Meade was wrapping up a search for a fugitive. Goodson, who had a license to carry a gun, was found with a sandwich bag and keys in his hands when he was shot. The weapon found at the scene had its safety mechanism engaged, contradicting Meade's claim that Goodson was armed. The previous trial ended in a deadlock due to juror dismissals during testimony and deliberations.
The retrial of Jason Meade for the killing of Casey Goodson Jr. has reignited discussions about police accountability and racial justice. The outcome of this trial will be closely watched by the community and advocates for police reform.