COLUMBUS, Ohio – Testimony continues in the trial of a former sheriff’s deputy accused of shooting and killing a Black man at the door of his grandmother’s house in 2020.
The defendant, Jason Meade, is a former Franklin County sheriff’s deputy facing charges for the death of 23-year-old Casey Goodson Jr. Meade’s defense claims that he shot Goodson after seeing him wave a gun while driving and then pointing it at Meade. However, Goodson’s family and the state have disputed this, arguing that Goodson was not holding his gun and was shot in the back by Meade.
During testimony, jurors heard from technical experts and witnesses linked to the investigation. Autopsy photos of Goodson were shown for the first time, eliciting emotional responses from his family members. Further testimony is expected from officers who responded to the scene.
During the trial, Goodson’s grandmother, uncle, and sister recounted their experiences when shots were fired, shedding light on the tragic incident. Two Columbus police officers and a crime scene investigator also provided testimony, adding to the perspective of events that unfolded on the day of the shooting.
Meade, a former Marine, had spent his entire law enforcement career at the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office. He left the force in July 2021 on disability retirement, prior to his indictment in Goodson’s death. Representing Meade are three experienced criminal defense attorneys. On the other side, special prosecutors have been assigned to handle the case, bringing ample experience in investigating officers who use lethal force.
The trial is under intense scrutiny, as many are closely watching the proceedings to see how justice will unfold in this controversial case.