Ex-Ohio Deputy Jason Meade Found Guilty of Reckless Homicide in Casey Goodson Jr. Shooting Case
A former Ohio sheriff’s deputy, Jason Meade, has been found guilty of reckless homicide in the fatal shooting of 23-year-old Casey Goodson Jr. The case, which dates back to December 2020 in Columbus, Ohio, reignited national debate over police accountability and the use of deadly force against Black Americans.
Goodson Jr. was shot multiple times in the back while entering his grandmother’s home, an incident that prosecutors said was unjustified and unsupported by eyewitness or video evidence.
Case Background
Jason Meade, a former Franklin County Sheriff’s deputy, claimed he fired at Goodson because he believed the young man was armed and turning toward him. However, prosecutors argued that Goodson was carrying Subway sandwiches and keys at the time of the shooting.
Goodson, who was legally licensed to carry a firearm, did have a gun, but evidence presented in court suggested it was not in his hands during the encounter. The weapon was later found beneath his body inside the home.
This trial marked Meade’s second attempt to face murder charges, after the first ended in a mistrial.
Police and Legal Response
During the trial, Meade’s defense maintained that the shooting was justified based on his perception of a threat. However, no video footage captured the incident, and no independent witness confirmed seeing Goodson holding a gun.
A jury ultimately could not agree on the murder charge, resulting in a mistrial on that count, but found Meade guilty of reckless homicide.
Meade, who retired in 2021 and also serves as a Baptist pastor, is now awaiting sentencing following the verdict.
Public Reaction and Civil Unrest Context
The shooting of Casey Goodson Jr. sparked widespread outrage in Ohio, particularly amid national protests over police violence following George Floyd’s death in 2020. Demonstrations and public calls for justice emerged in Columbus, with banners demanding accountability for Goodson’s death.
The case is part of a broader pattern of controversial police shootings in Ohio that have intensified demands for law enforcement reform.
Key Updates in the Case
- Jason Meade found guilty of reckless homicide
- Jury deadlocked on murder charge, resulting in mistrial
- Shooting occurred in December 2020 in Columbus, Ohio
- Case retried after previous mistrial
- Sentencing for Meade is pending
FAQs
Who is Jason Meade?
Jason Meade is a former Franklin County sheriff’s deputy in Ohio who retired in 2021 and was also known as a Baptist pastor.
Who was Casey Goodson Jr.?
Casey Goodson Jr. was a 23-year-old Black man who was shot and killed in Columbus, Ohio, in December 2020.
What was Jason Meade convicted of?
He was convicted of reckless homicide, while the jury could not reach a verdict on a murder charge.
Was there video evidence of the shooting?
No, the incident was not captured on body camera or surveillance footage.
What happens next in the case?
Jason Meade is awaiting sentencing following the guilty verdict.