Shocking Child Abuse Case in Fort Walton Beach
Deputies say a Fort Walton Beach–area woman intentionally burned the hands of two young children in her care and failed to seek medical help afterward. The 3- and 5-year-old victims were taken to Destin–Fort Walton Beach Hospital late Tuesday before being transferred to a specialized burn center in Mobile. The suspect, 52-year-old Jeny Soto Duenas, is now being held without bond at the Okaloosa County Jail.
Repeat Offender From Niceville Gets 15-Year Federal Sentence for Child Pornography
A Niceville man with a prior child pornography conviction has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison after investigators discovered thousands of child sexual abuse images and videos on dozens of devices in his home. Federal and local law enforcement officials say the case highlights the importance of coordinated efforts to protect children from online exploitation.
OCSO Searching for Missing 35-Year-Old Tremaine McClellan
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office is searching for 35-year-old Tremaine McClellan, who was last heard from on November 3, 2025. Investigators released photos of McClellan and the SUV he may be driving, urging the public to come forward with any information that could help locate him. Anyone with tips is encouraged to contact the OCSO or reach out anonymously through Emerald Coast Crime Stoppers.
Death Row Timeline Nears End for Frank Walls
Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed a death warrant for Frank Athen Walls, the Okaloosa County man convicted in the 1987 murders of Airman Edward Alger and Ann Peterson and later linked to three additional slayings. Walls is scheduled to be executed on December 18, marking another addition to Florida’s record-setting year for executions.
Two People Shot at Fort Walton Beach Days Inn
Fort Walton Beach Police arrested a suspect after two people were shot and injured late Monday night at the Days Inn on Miracle Strip Parkway. Officers say the shooting was an isolated incident and that both victims are in stable condition.
Fort Walton Beach Announces Road Closures for Halloween Trick-or-Treating
Fort Walton Beach will close sections of Brooks Street SE and Bay Drive SE on Friday, Oct. 31, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. for Halloween trick-or-treating to ensure safety for families and children.
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 […]
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.
Niceville Officer Accused of Using Police Databases to Target Fellow Cop
Niceville Officer Accused of Using Police Databases to Target Fellow Cop Staff Reports October 11, 2025 7:57 pm Crime, Niceville, Public Safety In Brief: 👮 Who: Officer Coty Hall, Niceville Police Department💻 What: Arrested for alleged misuse of law enforcement databases and harassment📅 When: Arrested on October 10, 2025; investigation ran from January to October […]
