Commissioners commit to reform after tragic case

In a recent meeting, the Franklin County Board of Commissioners addressed the ongoing impact of the tragic death of Casey Goodson, emphasizing their commitment to improving law enforcement practices and community relations. Commissioner Crawley expressed pride in the board's dedication to making difficult decisions that prioritize justice over expediency, acknowledging community concerns while affirming their efforts to support the Goodson family.

The commissioners discussed a resolution aimed at settling a civil claim related to Goodson's death, recognizing that no financial compensation could replace the loss felt by his family and community. Commissioner Grady highlighted the lengthy and challenging process leading to the resolution, expressing hope for healing for the Goodson family.

The board also commended the prosecutor's office for their diligence throughout the legal proceedings, noting the complexity of representing the county in such sensitive matters. The commissioners reiterated their commitment to ongoing discussions about enhancing training and policies within law enforcement, particularly advocating for de-escalation training to provide officers with more options in critical situations.

Commissioner Boyce emphasized the importance of learning from this tragedy to foster growth within the county's law enforcement practices. He expressed optimism that the board's efforts would contribute to broader changes in policing, not just in Franklin County but nationwide.

The meeting concluded with the unanimous approval of the resolution, marking a significant step in addressing the community's concerns while honoring the memory of Casey Goodson.