ORIENT, Ohio — A former commander with the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections, David Pearson, is set to plead to a negligent homicide charge in connection with the fatal shooting of corrections officer Lt. Rodney Osborne during a training exercise earlier this year.
The Scioto Valley Guardian was the first news outlet to break this tragic story, which has drawn attention to safety protocols during training sessions at correctional facilities.
Pearson, who served as an operations commander, was terminated in September following the April 9 incident at the Corrections Training Academy near Pickaway Correctional Institution. He was indicted in July on a misdemeanor charge of negligent homicide.
According to the investigators, Pearson had candidates clear their weapons and complete timed pistol drills, followed by “dry” firing exercises. During the exercises, Pearson noticed deficiencies in Osborne’s technique and walked over to demonstrate proper movements. While attempting to assist, Pearson, allegedly unholstered his pistol, aimed it at Osborne, and pulled the trigger. The gun discharged, striking Osborne in the chest and resulting in his death.
Pearson’s plea is scheduled for December 9.
The Guardian will continue to provide updates on this case and its implications for the corrections community.