HANOVER, Va. – On March 18, 2016, the Hanover Sheriff’s Office responded to the 15400 block of Mountain Road for a male subject in cardiac arrest. Once deputies arrived on scene, they found a man, John Cassells, Jr., lying on the ground beside a truck. The victim was transported to the hospital where he later died.
An investigation was immediately initiated. Investigators conducted extensive interviews and subsequently charged, Jesse Patrick Booth, with second degree murder. The investigation revealed an altercation between the victim and suspect. The medical examiner determined the cause of death to be blunt force trauma to the head. While an arrest has been made, investigators continue to collect information in support of this case.
“I am extremely proud of the countless hours our investigators spent on this investigation. This is an example of the dedication the Hanover Sheriff’s Office has to the members of its community. It is my hope that this arrest brings some form of closure to Mr. Cassell’s family and friends,” said Colonel David R. Hines, Sheriff.