DAYTON, Ohio ( WDTN ) — Family and former coworkers of the slain Detective Jorge Del Rio have spoken out following the sentencing of Nathan Goddard and Cahke Cortner.
On Monday, both Goddard and Cortner received life sentences for killing Del Rio during a 2019 drug raid. This comes four months after the men were found guilty of several charges including murder, intent to distribute narcotics and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
Continued threats cause school evacuations in Springfield The family of Del Rio shared their relief following the sentencing.
“A lot of weight lifted off of our shoulders. Because now it’s giving us the opportunity to finally be able to grieve and move on. It’ll never be fully behind us, but at least put as much of it behind us as we can,” said Ariel Busch, Det. Del Rio’s daughter.
Del Rio was heavily involved with the Dayton Police Department’s Investigation Division. Many of his colleagues say it’s been hard having a piece of their team missing.
“For those who know him, like he was our world man, he was the one who would always cheer you up when you came in the office. He would always have something funny to say,” said Maj. Brian Johns.
“Just a real down-to-earth person, loved his family, loved his coworkers. He was just a great person,” said Lt. Col. Eric Henderson.
Those closest to Del Rio say they agree with the sentences, but they still have lingering frustrations.
“It doesn’t seem fair to me. I don’t see it as closure, but you know it is some peace of mind I guess for me and for the family, that those people responsible have been put away for it,” said Det. Thomas Oney.
Man sentenced to 15 to 20 years for stabbing pregnant mother “I can say I’m happy that this is coming to the end. But, at the same time, Jorge’s wife and kids you know, and our department and law enforcement community you know, it’s not going to change what we ultimately what we really wish: that Jorge was still here,” said Henderson.
Del Rio continues to impact the community. After his death, his organs were donated to those in need, saving more lives in his last moments.
He has also been memorialized on part of Monument Ave., which was renamed in Del Rio’s honor. The stretch between Patterson Blvd. and Main Street is now known as Detective Jorge Del Rio Way.
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