Rolshawun D. Goff, a 46-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on December 27, 2020, in Paris, Texas. The circumstances surrounding his death were both shocking and heartbreaking. On that fateful day, Goff was at home, enjoying Christmas movies with his family, including his four-year-old daughter. The peaceful evening took a horrific turn when Ashton Jacorrien Green, who had been given a cigarette by Goff, returned to the apartment after smoking on the balcony and brutally
shot Goff multiple times in the head and neck. This heinous act was witnessed by several family members, adding to the trauma of the event.
The Paris Police Department responded swiftly to the scene, locating the murder weapon discarded at a nearby house. Green was apprehended near Crockett Intermediate School within 15 minutes of the incident. The investigation revealed that Green had a history of violent behavior, including a previous juvenile felony sentence for burglary and making terroristic threats to shoot up his school. The impact of Goff's death on his family was profound, with his young daughter being placed in foster care as a result.
The legal proceedings that followed were swift and decisive. A Lamar County jury convicted Ashton Jacorrien Green of murder after deliberating for only about 30 minutes. During the trial, the overwhelming evidence of Green's guilt was presented, leading to his conviction. The jury's verdict was a reflection of the community's desire for justice and their recognition of the severity of Green's crime. Green was sentenced to 99 years in prison, a sentence that underscored the gravity of his actions and the need to protect the community from such violent individuals.
The case was tried in the 6th District Court before Judge Wes Tidwell, with District Attorney Gary Young and First Assistant District Attorney Benjamin Kaminar prosecuting on behalf of the state. Green was represented by Paul Rosemergy. The swift response of the Paris Police Department and the jury's verdict provided some measure of justice and peace to Goff's grieving family, though nothing could truly compensate for their loss.
