Authorities have released the identity of the inmate accused of attacking and killing a veteran Ohio corrections officer on Christmas Day.
The Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (ODRC) has confirmed that Officer Andrew Lansing lost his life after an “inmate assault” at the Chillicothe prison on Christmas morning.
The incident occurred around 7:15 a.m., but the department did not release additional information about what led to the assault.
On Thursday, the Ohio State Highway Patrol ordered the inmate to be booked into jail on felonious assault and weapons charges stemming from a September 2023 incident, according to the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections website. He was identified as 27-year-old Rashaun Cannon. .
The website indicated that Canon's expected release date was August 5, 2030.
Cannon was transferred to the Southern Ohio Correctional Facility, officials said.
Annette Chambers-Smith, director of the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, released a statement about the assault, calling it a difficult loss.
“We are saddened by the tragic death of Correctional Officer Andrew Lansing following an inmate assault at Ross Correctional Facility this morning,” Chambers-Smith said in a statement.
Chambers-Smith said Officer Lansing was a long-time and well-respected employee at the center, and his “untimely death on Christmas Day is a great loss to his family, the entire Ross Correctional Facility family, and our entire department.” It's heartbreaking.” ”
“Officer Lansing was loved by his colleagues and was known for his great support of RCI employees. Our thoughts remain with Officer Lansing's family and loved ones during this devastating and tragic time. We ask you to keep us in your prayers,” the statement continued.
Rep. Mark Johnson (R-Ohio) also released a statement expressing his condolences and calling Officer Lansing “one of the finest correctional officers.”
“While many of us were celebrating the Christmas holidays, tragedy struck the Ross Correctional Facility.Today, one of our most talented correctional officers lost his life in a struggle with an inmate. I am saddened and troubled to say this,” the statement reads.
“The Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a homicide. Please keep the family of a police officer in your prayers as they grapple with the death of a police officer on Christmas Day.”
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine ordered all flags to be lowered in honor of Officer Lansing until sunset on the day of his funeral.
Chambers-Smith added that Ross Correctional Facility is currently operating under a travel restriction and an investigation by the Ohio State Highway Patrol is ongoing.
