Full Breakdown
Jury Deliberates Retrial of Ohio Deputy Charged with Murder
5/7/2026, 7:28:47 AM
Retrial and Jury Deliberations
A Columbus jury began deliberations Wednesday in the second trial of Franklin County sheriff’s deputy Jason Meade. Meade, a Baptist pastor, faces murder and reckless homicide charges for shooting 23-year-old Casey Goodson Jr., a Black man, five times in the back as Goodson attempted to enter his grandmother’s home in December 2020.
Background and Civil Settlement
The 2020 shooting led to a 2024 trial that ended in a mistrial. Later that year Goodson’s family secured a $7 million civil-rights settlement against Franklin County. The case follows protests after George Floyd’s murder and Ohio incidents involving Black victims and white officers.
Key Individuals and Organizations
- Jason Meade – deputy, represented by Mark Collins, Kaitlyn Stephens.
- Casey Goodson Jr. – deceased, Black, 23.
- Howard Tim Merkle – special prosecutor.
- Goodson family – civil-rights plaintiffs.
- Franklin County Sheriff’s Office – employer.
Shooting Evidence
Six bullet wounds were recorded: five to Goodson’s back, one to his side. No body-camera footage exists. A firearm recovered under Goodson’s body on the kitchen floor had the safety engaged. Goodson held a concealed-carry license, but prosecutors say he turned and pointed the gun at Meade.
Official Statements and Responses
Defense argues Meade acted reasonably when he perceived a threat, emphasizing that officers are judged on reasonableness, not perfection. Prosecution argues evidence does not support the claim Goodson aimed a weapon, questions motive to mislead the jury, and notes lack of video.
Criticism and Opposition
Observers and community advocates criticize the lack of body-camera video and the pattern of Black individuals being fatally shot by white Ohio officers. They argue evidentiary gaps hinder accountability and raise concerns about systemic bias in law-enforcement investigations.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
Prosecutors say Goodson turned and pointed a gun, while his family says he held only a sandwich bag and keys. Firearm’s safety was engaged, and no video corroborates either account. These contradictions remain unresolved as the jury evaluates the case.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Jason had to decide, ladies and gentlemen, whether the gun he had already seen twice was going to be the gun that killed him,” — Mark Collins, Defense Attorney
- “Who’s got a motive here to deceive?” — Howard Tim Merkle, Special Prosecutor
- “So what evidence is there against the idea, the suggestion that Casey turned and pointed the gun?” — Howard Tim Merkle, Special Prosecutor
- “We can start with he's got six shots in his back. They're not in his front.” — Howard Tim Merkle, Special Prosecutor
Upcoming Verdict
The jury continues deliberations, with a verdict expected later this week, determining whether Meade is convicted of murder and reckless homicide.
