PICKAWAY COUNTY, Ohio — A former commander with the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections (ODRC) is facing potential prison time after pleading guilty to negligent homicide on Monday in connection with the fatal shooting of corrections officer Lt. Rodney Osborne during a training exercise.
The Pickaway County Prosecutor’s Office announced that they are seeking the maximum sentence allowed under Ohio law: six months in jail and a $1,000 fine.
David Pearson, who was serving as a firearms instructor at the time, was indicted in July following the April 9 incident at the Corrections Training Academy near the Corrections Reception Center in Orient. Pearson was terminated from his position in September.
The Scioto Valley Guardian was the first to report the tragic event, which has since sparked intense scrutiny of safety protocols during training sessions at correctional facilities.
Details of the Incident
According to investigators, Pearson was leading a training session that included weapon drills and “dry” firing exercises. Trainees were instructed to clear their weapons before completing timed pistol drills. During the exercise, Pearson observed what he perceived as deficiencies in Lt. Osborne’s technique and approached him to demonstrate proper movements.
Investigators say Pearson unholstered his firearm, aimed it at Osborne, and pulled the trigger. The weapon discharged, striking Osborne in the chest and fatally wounding him.
Lt. Rodney Osborne was a veteran corrections officer with a long career in the ODRC. His death has prompted calls for a review of training practices and safety measures at correctional institutions across the state.
Legal Proceedings
A date for sentencing has yet to be set. The court has ordered a pre-sentence investigation.