Walton County Sheriff’s Office Investigates Inmate Death at Jail

An inmate held in confinement at the Walton County Jail was found unresponsive early Sunday morning and later pronounced dead, according to the Walton County Sheriff’s Office. Jessie Raby, who was being housed in Holmes County while awaiting trial for the 2024 murders of his mother and brother, was found on the floor of his […]
Traffic Stop in Walton County Leads to Arrest, Discovery of Pipe Bombs

A traffic stop in Walton County early Tuesday morning led deputies to a pair of pipe bombs and a stash of methamphetamine, according to the Walton County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies pulled over a vehicle near Smith Road and Highway 90 for displaying a cardboard tag labeled “PRIVATE.” The driver, who did not have identification, was […]
Governor Appoints Zack Smith to UWF Board of Trustees

Governor Ron DeSantis has appointed Pensacola native Zack Smith to the University of West Florida Board of Trustees, providing the board with local legal expertise. Smith serves as Senior Legal Fellow and Manager of the Supreme Court and Appellate Advocacy Program at The Heritage Foundation, an American conservative think tank based in Washington, D.C. He also serves as a […]
“I Am Innocent” Former Walton Leader Robertson Will Fight Firing, Felony Charges

Fired and now facing felony charges, Walton County’s former top official says it’s all because he tried to expose corruption—hear his side of the story.
Customary Use Bill Passes Final Stop Before Floor Vote. Will You Get Access to the Sand?

Will public beach access return to Walton County? A new bill just cleared a major hurdle in the Florida Senate.
Sacred Heart Emerald Coast Recognized Among Top Maternity Hospitals in U.S. for Fifth Year

Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast has been named one of America’s Best Maternity Care Hospitals by Newsweek for the fifth year, with additional national recognition for its maternal care services and regional NICU access.
Help Wanted: Walton County Tourism Department Seeking Executive Director

As Walton County’s tourism industry doubles in size, county leaders debate whether it’s time to bring back a top leadership role to guide the way.
Walton County Jury Convicts Man of Sexual Battery on Yacht

A Walton County jury convicted Dr. Francis Nicoli Herrbold of sexual battery following a 2023 incident on a yacht at the Sandestin Marina; sentencing is scheduled for June 3.
GALLERY: Thousands Line Roads to Mourn Death of Walton Sheriff’s Deputy Will May

A deputy’s final act of courage is remembered as hundreds gather to honor his life, legacy, and sacrifice in the line of duty.
Walton County Might Contribute Something to Okaloosa’s SS United States Reef Project. Here’s What They Want in Return:

Walton County is considering contributing $1 million to Okaloosa County’s artificial reef project involving the SS United States ship, but wants to opt out of a separate $1 million marketing contribution; discussions are ongoing with a decision expected in June.