State audit finds no policy lapses at Chillicothe prison where guard was killed on Christmas

CHILLICOTHE, Ohio (WCMH) -- A Chillicothe prison where an officer was killed by an inmate on Christmas Day did not have any policy lapses.

An investigation by the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction found that the inmate, Rashawn Cannon, is the only person allegedly responsible for Officer Andrew Lansing's death, according to an investigative summary. The investigation found that there were no policy violations.

The facility was fully staffed that day, Cannon was properly classified as "security level 3" and was not under the influence, according to the investigation. Lansing was also in his proper post. Cannon was allowed to leave his housing unit to go to the food service area when he went to Lansing's location instead.

"The staff at Ross Correctional Institution have shown great strength, professionalism, and resolve in the face of this unimaginable tragedy," according to the DRC. "They should be commended for their ongoing commitment and dedication, and for the unwavering support they have shown one another during such a devastating time."

Cannon was charged with three counts of murder and faces the death penalty. Cannon was set to be in prison until 2030 for two previous charges.