Okaloosa Sheriff disables social media comments after police shooting
After a deputy mistook an acorn for gunfire and opened fire on a handcuffed man, the sheriff’s office shut off all public comments — but offered little explanation why.
BrunchFest Returns to Pensacola This October to Support Boys & Girls Clubs
BrunchFest returns to downtown Pensacola this October to raise funds for youth programs through a community brunch event hosted by the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast.
Every Okaloosa Judge Has Recused Themselves On This Former Deputy’s Case:
The trial of former jail director Nolan Weeks, accused of impersonating an officer during a traffic stop, will take place outside Okaloosa County following a full judicial recusal.
Mary Esther eyes public safety contracts amid budget deficit, capital projects
With a deficit budget on the table and millions in capital projects ahead, Mary Esther’s leaders are asking a bold question: Are taxpayers getting what they pay for in public safety?
Okaloosa County keeps property tax rate flat for FY2026, advances $687M budget amid surging property values
Okaloosa County keeps property tax rate flat for FY2026, advances $687M budget amid surging property values Collin Bestor July 24, 2025 5:00 pm Okaloosa County In Brief: 🏡 No Property Tax Increase: The county’s ad valorem rate remains at 3.8308 mills for the eighth consecutive year. 📈 $687 Million Budget: Growth in property values helps […]
Okaloosa Departments Made $60 Million in Budget Requests. Here’s What They Want it For:
Okaloosa Budget: Workshop highlights public safety, health, jail and tourism Collin Bestor July 24, 2025 1:15 pm Okaloosa County In Brief: 💰 $60 million in budget requests highlight critical needs across elections, public safety, and corrections as Okaloosa County plans for FY2026. 🚔 The county jail is operating 25% over capacity, prompting new officer training […]
Niceville resident Col. Steven Butler dies from injuries after State Road 20 crash
Retired Army Col. Steven Butler died from injuries sustained in a July 3 crash and is being remembered for his military service, community involvement, and devotion to family.
Crestview man arrested on trafficking, firearm charges after drug task force raid
Okaloosa County’s Multi-Agency Drug Task Force arrested a Crestview man after seizing fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and a firearm during a search warrant execution.
American Airlines launches Miami service, expands Chicago Service from Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport
American Airlines will launch nonstop service from VPS to Miami and expand Chicago flights to year-round, increasing travel options and regional access.
METH RAID: Five Busted in FWB by Task Force
Five people face charges after a narcotics raid in Fort Walton Beach turned up fentanyl, meth, and drug paraphernalia.
