Curtis Johnson Murder Trial Ends With A Not-Guilty Verdict
A Santa Rosa County jury has acquitted former Okaloosa County corrections sergeant Curtis Marvin Johnson of second-degree murder in the 2025 shooting death of his roommate, Barbara “Barbie” Dedert. Johnson was found not guilty August 20, 2026, bringing the case to a close more than a year after the shooting.
Suspect killed in Crestview SWAT standoff may have intended to attack nearby school, Sheriff says
A man killed during a Crestview SWAT standoff may have intended to attack a nearby school, according to Okaloosa County Sheriff Eric Aden. Investigators discovered weapons, ammunition, gas masks and IEDs inside the suspect’s home after he opened fire on police executing a Risk Protection Order.
Okaloosa County may help fund animal control using surtax funds
The Okaloosa County Surtax Committee voted to advance a proposal that would use $600,000 in tourism surtax funds to help pay for animal control services. County officials say the funding would support a scaled-back “Animal Control Light” program after PAWS ends its contract with the county this fall.
Santa Rosa Man Sentenced After Gruesome Animal Cruelty Investigation
A Santa Rosa County judge sentenced Gunner Cole Bush to five years in state prison—the maximum penalty allowed—after a jury convicted him of aggravated animal cruelty. Prosecutors said Bush tortured a kitten to death, while investigators also uncovered the remains of two other missing family cats during the investigation.
Federal Case Ends in Guilty Plea for Former Navarre Gymnastics Coach
Former Navarre gymnastics coach Theresa Mitchell pleaded guilty to federal child exploitation and money laundering charges and faces decades in prison.
Tropical Depression 2 likely to become Tropical Storm Bertha; minimal impact expected for FL Panhandle
Tropical Depression 2 is expected to strengthen into Tropical Storm Bertha while remaining offshore of the Florida Panhandle. Okaloosa County remains under a Tropical Storm Watch, though officials say impacts should be limited to heavy rain, gusty winds, dangerous surf and possible minor coastal flooding through Tuesday.
Holt Man Accused of Lewd Act and Assaulting Deputies During Arrest
A Holt man faces multiple charges after deputies say he exposed himself in public and assaulted officers during his arrest.
Federal Immigration Cases Highlight Repeat Illegal Reentry in Okaloosa County
Federal prosecutors announced 16 immigration convictions in June, including multiple cases originating in Okaloosa and Walton counties.
Smoke Expected as Eglin Conducts Prescribed Burn Near Florosa
Residents near Florosa may see smoke this week as Eglin Air Force Base conducts planned prescribed burns to reduce wildfire risks and improve forest health.
Fort Walton Beach Police Make Arrest After Violent Condo Shooting
Two people were shot at a Fort Walton Beach condominium complex before police tracked down and arrested a suspect in Crestview.
