Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction
End of Watch: December 25, 2024

One year ago, on Christmas morning—a day meant for peace, family, and celebration—the Ohio corrections community lost one of its most dedicated public servants: Correction Officer Andrew “Andy” Lansing. Today, we honor his memory, his legacy of service, and the extraordinary life he lived both inside and outside the walls of Ross Correctional Institution.

A Christmas Morning Tragedy

At approximately 7:30 a.m. on December 25, 2024, Officer Lansing was working overtime at Ross Correctional Institution in Chillicothe. He volunteered for the shift so that younger staff with small children could remain home with their families on Christmas morning—an act that reflected exactly who he was: selfless, thoughtful, and committed to his team.

During that shift, an inmate—described by officials as “pure evil”—entered the prison yard and attacked Officer Lansing as he worked alone in the center of the yard. He was assaulted inside an unlocked guard shack and suffered severe head trauma. Despite rapid transport to the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Officer Lansing succumbed to his injuries en route. He never made it home.

The inmate was immediately transferred to the maximum-security Southern Ohio Correctional Facility in Lucasville and has since been charged with aggravated murder. Ross Correctional Institution went under restricted movement as the investigation unfolded.

A Career Defined by Excellence and Service

Officer Lansing served more than 24 years with the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (ODRC), a career marked by leadership, fairness, and professionalism. He was known for mentoring new officers, offering guidance with patience and integrity, and always carrying himself with a ready smile.

His career included:

• U.S. Army service (1981–1992)

• A correctional officer assignment at Marion Correctional Institution in the 1980s

• Thirteen years at Ross Correctional Institution (1994–2007)

• A five-year period with MPRI International Services, where he helped the Iraqi government strengthen correctional security

• A return to Ross Correctional Institution in 2013, where he remained until his final shift

To colleagues, he was “professional,” “pure and good,” and “the kind of officer who would do anything for anyone.” To those he trained, he was a model of what a correctional officer should be.

A Family Man Loved by Many

Officer Lansing is survived by:

• His wife, Elmond Lansing

• Two children

• Three sisters and three brothers

He was preceded in death by two sisters.

His brother Mike described Andy as “fair and firm” inside the prison, but gentle, generous, and deeply loved by everyone who knew him.

His family was able to say their goodbyes at Adena Medical Center in Chillicothe before he was transported to OSU—a moment that brought loved ones together during the most heartbreaking circumstances imaginable.

In honor of his sacrifice, Governor Mike DeWine ordered flags lowered at all state prisons, in Ross County, and at the Ohio Statehouse.

A Legacy That Continues to Shape Ohio Corrections

In 2025, one year after his death, Officer Andrew Lansing was posthumously awarded the Ronald C. Marshall Correction Officer of the Year Award, an ODRC honor bestowed upon the officer who best represents the agency’s core values.

His death also inspired legislative action.

“Andy’s Law” – House Bill 338

Introduced in his honor, this proposed legislation seeks to:

• Increase penalties for inmates who assault or kill correctional employees

• Strengthen aggravated murder and aggravated assault statutes when the victim is a correctional worker

• Implement measures to reduce drug access inside facilities

• Improve overall officer safety through updated security protocols

Supporters believe “Andy’s Law” is a critical step toward preventing future tragedies and protecting correctional staff across Ohio.

A Loss Felt Across the Nation

ODRC Director Annette Chambers-Smith said it best:

“Instead of going home after his shift to be with his family on this holiday, Officer Lansing made the ultimate sacrifice, and our agency will never be the same.”

The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation stood with his family, coworkers, and community in the aftermath of his murder. CPOF Honor Guard members and representatives proudly attended his services, honoring him with the respect and dignity his sacrifice deserves.

We Remember

This Christmas marks one year since the day Officer Lansing gave everything in service to others. Today, we remember:

• The Army veteran

• The correctional officer

• The mentor

• The friend

• The devoted husband and father

• The man who volunteered on Christmas so others could be with their families

His life was filled with courage. His service shaped his community. His sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Correction Officer Andrew “Andy” Lansing
End of Watch: December 25, 2024
Forever honored. Forever remembered.