Rep. Humphrey Responds to Tragic Death of Correction Officer Lansing, Resulting Investigations

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Latyna M. Humphrey (D-Columbus) today joins the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (ODRC) and the wider community in mourning the tragic loss of Correction Officer Andrew Lansing, who was fatally assaulted on Christmas morning while serving at Ross Correctional Institution. Rep. Humphrey offers her deepest condolences to Officer Lansing’s family, friends, and colleagues during this profoundly difficult time.

Following this tragic incident, the prison was placed under a full lockdown as per protocol, and the Special Response Team (SRT) was deployed to conduct searches and secure the institution. This procedure resulted in numerous claims of retaliation circulating on social media and being sent to Rep. Humphrey’s office, alleging malpractice and excessive use of force by the SRT and RCI Correctional Officers.

As Vice Chair of the Ohio Correctional Institution Inspection Committee (CIIC)—an independent entity separate from the ODRC tasked with ensuring accountability and oversight of Ohio’s correctional institutions—Rep. Humphrey directed the CIIC Executive Director to immediately investigate these claims thoroughly.

“I’ve been made aware of allegations of Retaliation from the SRT and potentially the RCI Correctional Officers. So, I instructed CIIC to go to Ross Correctional Institution to gauge the validity of these complaints & take action. Every offender who raised concerns through social media or other channels was given a wellness check conducted by our independent body. I can confirm that all inmates were found to be okay but possibly shaken up. While, I do believe the Special Response Team did utilize force in some instances during the searches, the investigation did not reveal any direct indications of abuse,” said Rep. Humphrey.

Summary of Findings from CIIC Inspection

A CIIC site visit to Ross Correctional Institution on December 31, 2024, addressed three primary allegations:

1. Allegations of Inmate Abuse:

• CIIC identified specific inmates who had raised concerns of excessive force during the SRT searches. Upon inspection, no visible injuries or evidence of abuse were observed. Strip searches conducted were within policy guidelines.

2. Showers and Sanitation:

• The CIIC confirmed that sanitation procedures and access to showers were being maintained according to protocol. Restrictive housing units documented proper service offerings, and general population units were orderly and clean. In the General Population, during the CIIC showers were being provided to inmates one at a time. 

3. Food Services:

• The CIIC reviewed meal services and found no irregularities apart from pre-planned brown bag meals served during institutional shakedown periods. These meals complied with logistical and operational necessities.

The CIIC’s inspection confirmed that all inmate concerns had been addressed, and the institution was operating within policy standards.

Rep. Humphrey emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability during this challenging time.

“I will continue working to ensure that both the safety of our officers and the well-being of those in our care remain priorities,” said Rep. Humphrey.

For additional details on the findings or inquiries, please contact the Office of State Representative Humphrey.