A former Ohio sheriff’s deputy, Jason Meade, testified in his murder trial on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, claiming he shot Casey Goodson Jr. in self-defense. Meade alleges Goodson pointed a gun at him, contradicting prosecutors who state Goodson’s firearm was found on the kitchen floor with the safety engaged. The shooting, which occurred in 2020, was not captured on body camera as Meade was not wearing one.
Jason Meade testifies in his murder trial on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, in Columbus, Ohio. (Court TV)
Meade, a white pastor at a Baptist church, faces charges of murder and reckless homicide in the death of Goodson, a Black man. He has pleaded not guilty. The incident took place as Goodson was entering his grandmother’s house, where he subsequently fell after being shot six times – five times in the back. Prosecutors contend Goodson was holding a bag of sandwiches and his keys when Meade opened fire.
Conflicting Accounts of the Fatal Shooting
Meade testified that he initiated a pursuit after observing Goodson brandishing a gun from his car. He claims Goodson ignored his commands and, upon turning, raised his gun towards him. “I thought he was going to shoot me. I’m thinking, I don’t want to die. I didn’t want to shoot him,” Meade stated, adding he felt he had no choice but to eliminate a “deadly threat” despite hoping Goodson would surrender.
Prosecutors argue that Goodson was unarmed at the time of the shooting, highlighting the discovery of his firearm on the kitchen floor with the safety engaged. This directly contradicts Meade’s testimony, raising questions about the justification for the use of deadly force.
Controversial Past Statements Resurface
The trial also revisited Meade’s previous statements made at a Christian men’s conference, where he described his law enforcement work as “hunting” people and asserted his right to “throw the first punch.” These remarks sparked considerable controversy and attempts by Meade’s lawyers to suppress the recordings were unsuccessful. Meade attempted to explain his “hunting” comment as an analogy to make his job understandable to those unfamiliar with law enforcement. He also linked his comments on use of force to the biblical story of David and Goliath.
Prosecution Challenges Meade’s Narrative
Special prosecutor Gary Shroyer questioned the adequacy of Meade’s identification as law enforcement, noting the absence of sirens or lights during the pursuit. Meade argued the urgency of the situation precluded such measures and insisted Goodson must have heard him, despite wearing AirPods. Shroyer highlighted inconsistencies in Meade’s testimony regarding Goodson’s movements, emphasizing that Goodson was entering his own home with his keys.
This undated photo provided by family attorney Sean Walton shows Casey Goodson. (Family Photo/Courtesy of Attorney Sean Walton via AP)
Shroyer challenged Meade’s assertion of “criminal activity” on Goodson’s part, questioning whether a reasonable officer, knowing Goodson was in his own car and approaching his residence, would have acted similarly. Meade admitted he did not see how Goodson opened the door but maintained that Goodson’s actions were suspicious.
The Case Remains Contentious
While Goodson’s family and the prosecution acknowledge Goodson’s legal right to carry a firearm, they emphasize he was unarmed at the moment he was shot. The presence of a holster without a strap further complicates the narrative. The conflicting accounts of the events leading to Goodson’s death, coupled with the controversial past statements of the former deputy, continue to fuel public interest and scrutiny of the case.
Key Questions Remain Unanswered
As the trial continues, several crucial questions remain: Did Jason Meade reasonably believe his life was in danger? Did Casey Goodson pose an immediate threat? Was the use of deadly force justified? The jury will ultimately decide Meade’s fate, considering the complex and conflicting evidence presented. The outcome of this trial carries significant implications, impacting not only those directly involved but also the broader conversation surrounding police conduct, racial bias, and the right to self-defense.
The Search for Justice Continues
The trial of Jason Meade underscores the ongoing struggle for justice and accountability in cases involving police use of force. The conflicting narratives, the absence of body camera footage, and the controversial past statements of the accused have created a highly charged atmosphere. The verdict will undoubtedly have far-reaching consequences, shaping public perception and potentially influencing future policies related to law enforcement practices. The search for truth and justice in the death of Casey Goodson Jr. continues.
