CHILLICOTHE, OH – May 9, 2025 — The Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (ODRC) has posthumously named Officer Andrew Lansing of Ross Correctional Institution (RCI) as the 2025 Ronald C. Marshall Correction Officer of the Year—one of the agency’s highest honors.
Lansing, a respected and dedicated officer who served on RCI’s Special Response Team, was killed in the line of duty on Christmas Day during a violent attack by an inmate. The award recognizes his bravery, professionalism, and the lasting impact he had on the institution and his fellow officers.
“Officer Lansing embodied everything good about this agency,” the department said in its announcement. “He was a shining example of the kind of officer we want in our ranks. May we continue to carry Andy’s memory forward and remember the legacy he left behind.”
Lansing died from injuries sustained in a prison yard assault by 27-year-old inmate Rashawn Cannon, who was serving time for felonious assault and illegal firearm possession. Following the incident, Cannon was transferred to the Southern Ohio Correctional Facility.
In Lansing’s honor, last year’s RCI Officer of the Year, George Horsley, will represent the institution in the statewide competition for Ohio Correction Officer of the Year. Horsley, who was previously mentored by Lansing, will attend the interview process at the Corrections Training Academy on March 4.
RCI also recognized Allan Szoke, the Warden’s Administrative Assistant, as its 2025 Employee of the Year. Szoke and Horsley will both participate in the statewide recognition ceremony.
RCI is observing Employee Appreciation Week from May 5 through May 9, featuring a memorial service, retiree breakfast, and a special roll call dedication to Officer Lansing.
Lansing’s death and recognition highlight the often-overlooked sacrifices corrections officers make daily. His colleagues say the honor is not just an award, but a testament to the courage and character he brought to every shift.
