Fort Walton Beach Police Department Earns Reaccreditation From CFA With Full Compliance

The Fort Walton Beach Police Department has earned reaccreditation from the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation with no non-compliant findings, reaffirming its commitment to professional standards and community accountability.
Fort Walton Beach Man Sentenced to 30 Years for 2022 Shooting at Coasters

Fort Walton Beach Man Sentenced to 30 Years for 2022 Shooting at Coasters Staff Reports October 22, 2025 11:32 am Crime, Fort Walton Beach, Okaloosa County, Public Safety In Brief: Michael Alan Ladson was convicted of attempted second-degree murder for a 2022 shooting at Coasters in Fort Walton Beach. Ladson fired a single shot at […]
United Fidelity Bank to Host Annual Fort Walton Beach Community Day

United Fidelity Bank will host its 4th annual Community Day in Fort Walton Beach on October 25, featuring free food, games, live music, and a book giveaway for children, along with booths from over 30 local organizations.
Fort Walton Beach Police Respond to Reported Shots at White Wilson Medical Center

Fort Walton Beach police responded to White Wilson Medical Center after an 87-year-old man suffered a self-inflicted gunshot. He was transported to the hospital, and authorities say there is no ongoing threat.
Janisia Magallanes Stopped Bullying at Her School, Now She Protects Hundreds

Meet Deputy Janisia Magallanes, a Walton County Sheriff’s Office school resource officer (SRO) at Walton County High School. From standing up to bullying as a high school student to patrolling hallways and mentoring students today, she’s dedicated to student safety, school security, and community policing in DeFuniak Springs, Florida.
Fort Walton Beach Council delays $7M rec complex, approves new PAWS contract, advances charter changes

Fort Walton Beach officials approved a new PAWS contract, postponed a recreation complex expansion, and advanced two charter amendments on election timing and mayoral pay.
‘No Kings’ rally draws large crowd in Fort Walton Beach

Hundreds gathered at The Landing this weekend for Fort Walton Beach’s second “No Kings” rally — part of a nationwide day of demonstrations. Attendees say the growing turnout shows more locals are ready to take part in civic action and community change.
Air Force Enlisted Village Breaks Ground on Village 7
The Air Force Enlisted Village in Shalimar has broken ground on its seventh residential community, expanding housing and support for retired enlisted Airmen and their spouses.
Fort Walton Beach Announces Opening of New Museum Store at Indian Temple Mound Museum

The Indian Temple Mound Museum in Fort Walton Beach will open a new museum store on November 1 as part of its ongoing expansion and renovation, offering visitors unique items and artwork while increasing exhibit space.
Fort Walton Beach accepts $152k ICE grant under 287(g) program

Fort Walton Beach will take $152,500 in federal ICE funds to support its 287(g) immigration partnership — but not everyone agrees it’s a good idea. Officials say it won’t change local policing, while residents voiced strong opinions on both sides.