COLUMBUS, Ohio — Franklin County Commissioners on Tuesday overwhelmingly approved the $7 million settlement in the case of Casey Goodson Jr. 

What You Need To Know

  • Goodson, a Black man, was shot and killed in December of 2020 by former Sheriff's Deputy Jason Meade

  • Meade was put on trial earlier this year, but it ended in a mistrial after the jury couldn't come to a verdict; he faces a retrial on Oct. 31 

  • Meade faces one charge of murder and one charged of reckless homicide

Goodson, a Black man, was shot and killed On Dec. 4, 2020 by former Sheriff's Deputy Jason Meade. Meade said he was serving a warrant in the area that was not related to Goodson. During the trial, Meade testified that Goodson had waved a gun at hime when they drove past each other. Because of this, Meade said he pursued Goodson, saying he "feared for his life." He then shot Goodson in the doorway of his grandmother's home. 

Goodson's family as well as prosecutors claimed he was holding a sandwich bag in one hand and keys in the other when he was shot, but not a gun. However, they haven't disputed that he may have been carrying a gun, as he was licensed to carry a firearm. The settlement was brought to the commissioners at the request of the prosecutor's office because the settlement money came from the county general fund. According to the resolution, the settlement dismisses all civil claims by Goodson's family without liability.

"We commend Casey's family and the community that has stood by them for their resilience and determination," a statement from the Goodson family attorneys read. "Their strength and unwavering commitment to justice serve as an inspiration to us all. As we move forward, we remain dedicated to supporting the family in their continued pursuit of accountability and to ensuring that Casey's legacy leads to meaningful change."

Meade was put on trial earlier this year, but it ended in a mistrial after the jury couldn't come to a verdict. He faces a retrial on Oct. 31 for one charge of murder and one charge of felonious assault. 

"Our focus now turns to the criminal justice system and the retrial of Michael Jason Meade," Goodson family attorneys said in a statement. "We are determined to see justice served and will continue to advocate tirelessly for the conviction and accountability that Casey deserves. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those who have stood by Casey's family during this difficult time. Your support has been invaluable and will continue to be so as we seek accountability for Casey Goodson Jr."

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