Niceville police will be authorized to carry out ICE actions under federal agreement
Niceville police officers will be authorized to perform certain immigration enforcement functions after the City Council unanimously approved joining ICE’s 287(g) program. The agreement allows participating officers to carry out designated federal immigration duties under ICE supervision. The city has not yet detailed how the program could affect local enforcement.
LATEST: Police release name of man killed in Monday’s horrendous wreck on John Sims
A morning traffic crash on John Sims Parkway in Niceville left one person dead and closed a major roadway for over five hours. Police are investigating reports of racing or road rage after a truck crashed into a tree near Partin Drive, prompting detours through local roads and Niceville High School.
HISTORY: Baker Alum Dies in Afghanistan Combat
Baker High School graduate Preston Medley died in October 2008 in a roadside bomb attack in Afghanistan at age 23. Medley, a former Baker School football and broadcast student, left behind a young daughter and an unborn baby born two months later. His body was escorted to Crestview for services.
Post-Isaias Update from the Emerald Coast: October 12
As post-Hurricane Isaias recovery continues across Okaloosa County, city facilities in Crestview and Niceville have reopened, though Turkey Creek and Children’s Park remain closed. CHELCO has restored power to over 50,000 members, while DOH-Okaloosa issued a health advisory for Choctawhatchee Bay and Santa Rosa Sound following wastewater overflows.
Photo gallery | Scenes from the aftermath of Hurricane Isaias
Staff photographer Casey Drayer shares photos from the aftermath of Hurricane Isaias and cleanup efforts around Okaloosa County.
DeSantis holds press conference in Destin; confirms 2 hurricane-related deaths
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis confirmed two hurricane-related deaths during a press conference on Okaloosa Island. Crews are clearing debris, restoring power to hundreds of thousands of customers and preparing for potential flooding. State officials also outlined insurance assistance and recovery resources for hurricane-damaged businesses.
Liveblog: Hurricane Isaias Coverage for the Emerald Coast
Niceville declared a state of emergency as Tropical Storm Isaias approaches the Emerald Coast. Heavy rainfall, strong winds, and storm surge up to seven feet are expected. Meanwhile, Okaloosa County School District has canceled all Thursday and Friday classes, rescheduling major high school football games to next week.
Eddie Duran found not guilty in Airman killing; spectators protest
A jury found former Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Deputy Eddie Duran not guilty of manslaughter in the 2024 fatal shooting of Senior Airman Roger Fortson. Following the unanimous verdict, spectators gathered outside the Okaloosa County Courthouse Annex Extension to protest. Local advocates criticized the jury selection and the evidence presented during the trial.
LIVE UPDATES: Jury deliberating in Eddie Duran manslaughter trial
The manslaughter trial of former Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Deputy Eddie Duran began with opening statements, witness testimony and bodycam footage from the 2024 shooting death of Senior Airman Roger Fortson. Prosecutors presented evidence about the events leading up to the shooting, while the defense maintains Duran acted in self-defense.
Crestview Olympic Medalist Mia Manganello talks post-racing career at Wal Mart Grand Opening
Two-time Olympic medalist speed skater Mia Manganello returned home to Crestview for Walmart’s grand opening, reflecting on how her community and Walmart supported her athletic dream. Now, Manganello is giving back through hospitality and volunteer work while advising aspiring young athletes to dream big and build strong local support networks.
