Rep. Jarrells issues statement after former deputy charged with murder in Casey Goodson Jr. shooting

State Rep. Dontavius Jarrells (D-Columbus) issued the following statement after former Franklin County Sheriff’s office deputy Jason Meade was indicted on murder charges for the fatal shooting of Casey Goodson Jr. in December 2020. 

“I am pleased to hear that the officer responsible has been indicted—however, there is still much work to be done,” said Rep. Jarrells. “It is imperative that Andre’s Law gets a hearing, so that future tragedies such as this could be avoided. There must be requirements in place that serve as proactive versus reactive measures when it comes to potential officer-involved misconduct. It is important to be able to provide transparency for the families who are affected by officer-involved shootings so that everyone is held accountable.”

House Democrats have introduced a comprehensive police reform legislative package that would restore accountability, modernize use-of-force standards and tackle racial bias to promote the safety and security of all Ohioans. The package includes Andre’s Law, which would require the use of body-worn cameras and dashboard cameras for all peace officers. Meade was not wearing a body camera at the time of the shooting.