CHILLICOTHE, Ohio – Recent documents from the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (ODRC) disclose that the inmate accused of fatally assaulting Correction Officer Andrew Lansing on Christmas Day had prior disciplinary interactions with the same officer earlier this year.
The inmate, identified as 27-year-old Rashawn L. Cannon, was serving time for felonious assault and weapons charges at Ross Correctional Institution (RCI) in Chillicothe. His expected release date was August 5, 2030.
According to the documents, an incident on April 1, 2024, involved Cannon demanding early access to a phone for a family issue. Officer Lansing denied the request, instructing Cannon to wait until his scheduled recreation period. Later that evening, Cannon reportedly became aggressive, shouting obscenities and threats, including, “F— you, I’ll kill you.” Despite several direct orders from Officer Lansing to de-escalate, Cannon continued his disruptive behavior, prompting Lansing to call for assistance and restrain him without further incident.
The Rules Infraction Board (RIB) reviewed Officer Lansing’s conduct report and found Cannon guilty of disobedience and disrespect towards staff, resulting in a 30-day phone restriction.
Tragically, on December 25, 2024, Officer Lansing was fatally assaulted at RCI. The Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction confirmed his death following “an inmate assault” that morning. The institution is currently operating under restricted movement, and the Ohio State Highway Patrol is conducting an investigation.
In response to the incident, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine ordered all flags to be lowered in honor of Officer Lansing until sunset on the day of his funeral.
Cannon has since been transferred to the Southern Ohio Correctional Facility. The investigation into Officer Lansing’s death is ongoing, with no further details released at this time.
A GoFundMe has been set up for the family of Lansing. Nearly $10,000 has already been raised. Those interested in donating can do so at the following link: Help our Fallen Officer and Hero Andrew Lansing’s Family.