Full Breakdown
Former Deputy Convicted of Reckless Homicide in Casey Goodson Jr. Shooting
5/8/2026, 6:55:29 AM
Partial Verdict
On May 7 2026 a Franklin County jury found former deputy Jason Meade guilty of reckless homicide for the Dec 4 2020 shooting of Casey Goodson Jr. Jurors deadlocked on murder, resulting in a mistrial on that count. Judge David Young revoked Meade’s bond and set sentencing for July 16 2026.
Background
Goodson, a 23-year-old Black man with a legal concealed-carry permit, was returning from a dentist appointment with sandwiches, earbuds and a handgun when Meade, a Franklin County deputy on a U.S. Marshals task force, pursued him after seeing Goodson wave a gun. Meade said Goodson pointed the firearm before Meade fired six rounds—five to the back, one to the side. No body-camera video exists; a gun was later found near Goodson’s torso with the safety on.
Timeline
Dec 4 2020: shooting; Feb 2024: first trial mistrial; Apr 20 2026: retrial begins; May 7 2026: reckless-homicide conviction; July 16 2026: sentencing.
Data
Reckless homicide is a third-degree felony (9-36 months, max five years). Six shots were fired, five to the back. The jury had nine women and three men. The family previously won a $7 million civil-rights settlement.
Impact
The verdict is only the second Ohio conviction of a white officer for killing a Black civilian since the 2020 George Floyd protests, underscoring ongoing debates over police use-of-force and community trust.
Official Statements & Criticism
Special prosecutors said, “the jury has spoken, and we’re pleased with that.” Prosecutor Gary Shroyer called the deliberations “hard to convict an officer guilty of murder, but evidence presented is what jury considered.” Mayor Andrew Ginther expressed sympathy for Goodson family and urged respect for judicial process. Prosecutor Shayla Favor stressed accountability to rebuild trust. Defense attorney Mark Collins argued, “it is not reckless for an officer to use deadly force when someone points a gun at him.” Police union president Brian Steel warned a third murder trial would be “a joke” and suggested political influence.
On-the-Ground & Conflicting Reports
In the courtroom Tamala Payne and relatives rocked back and forth, clasped hands and wept. Payne said, “My baby can rest.” Witnesses disagreed on whether Goodson actively pointed a gun; some said he held a sandwich bag and earbuds, while the defense maintained he pointed a firearm. No body-camera video captured the incident, leaving the precise sequence unresolved.
Verbatim Quotes
- “You know, we’d all like to see him be found guilty of murder because what he did is murder Casey,” — Tamala Payne, mother
- “six shots in the back” — Tim Merkle, special prosecutor
- “ "We don’t think it is reckless for an officer to use deadly force when someone points a gun at him.” — Mark Collins, defense attorney
- “I hope we don't do a third trial on this murder charge,” — Brian Steel, police union president
Next Steps
Judge Young will issue Meade’s sentence on July 16 2026. Prosecutors have not decided whether to pursue a third trial on the murder charge.
