Bluewater Bay MSBU returns with new members after hiatus
After a three-month hiatus, Bluewater Bay’s Municipal Services Benefit Unit is back in operation with three new board members. The MSBU is planning public workshops, a town hall and pedestrian safety improvements while focusing on transparency, community input and landscaping projects throughout Bluewater Bay.
Trial of former deputy charged in the killing of Hurlburt airman may start Monday. This is what’s happened so far:
The manslaughter trial of former Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Deputy Eddie Duran is expected to begin following two years of legal delays, procedural motions, and emotional testimony. Duran faces charges in the fatal May 2024 shooting of Senior Airman Roger Fortson inside Fortson’s Fort Walton Beach apartment.
Showdown on Hollywood: County orders Fort Walton Beach to rip down unpermitted speed cameras
A months-long title search determined two Fort Walton Beach school-zone speed cameras on Hollywood Boulevard were installed in Okaloosa County’s right of way without permits. County commissioners voted unanimously to order their removal within a week and authorized road transfer negotiations strictly conditioned on a permanent prohibition of speed-zone cameras
AFSOC leader Anthony Green found guilty of CSAM possession; dishonorably discharged
The trial of AFSOC Chief Master Sergeant Anthony Green ended with guilty verdicts on charges of indecent recording and possession, viewing and production of child sexual abuse material. Green was found not guilty of obstruction of justice. Sentencing is scheduled to resume at 1:30 p.m.
Niceville Fire Department pushes in sleek new black fire truck
The Niceville Fire Department welcomed its newest fire engine during a traditional push-in ceremony on Thursday. The distinctive black engine is the first of three new vehicles acquired after city leaders opted for a $1 million engine, rescue truck, and brush truck instead of a single $2.2 million tower truck.
Okaloosa commissioners reject 12-month data center moratorium 3-2 after hours of public opposition
Okaloosa County commissioners rejected a proposed 12-month moratorium on data centers in a 3-2 vote following passionate public opposition at Tuesday’s meeting. Despite strong calls from residents for an outright ban, the county will move forward with drafting regulations for data center development over the next 60 days.
Destin councilman arrested on felony theft charges
on September 11 following felony grand theft allegations. Braden is accused of taking money for an unlicensed home repair project, partially demolishing a deck, and abandoning it. A court hearing is scheduled for October 15, 2026.
Defense presents its case in trial of Chief Master Sgt. Anthony Green
The defense rested its case in the court-martial of Chief Master Sgt. Anthony Green, calling military leaders and family members to testify about his character, work schedule and alleged parenting concerns. The judge rejected the defense’s proposed affirmative defense based on parental rights. Closing arguments are expected tomorrow.
Judge denies controversial dismissal motions in manslaughter case
Circuit Judge William F. Stone has denied a defense motion to recuse himself, clearing the path for the manslaughter trial of former Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Deputy Eddie Duran to begin on September 28, 2026. Duran faces charges following the May 2024 fatal shooting of 23-year-old Hurlburt Field Airman Roger Fortson.
HISTORY: Hurricane Ivan the Terrible makes dramatic landfall
In 2004, Hurricane Ivan became one of history’s most destructive storms, causing over $14 billion in damage along the Gulf Coast. Beyond the physical destruction, Ivan ignited the “sand wars”—a landmark legal conflict over beach ownership and renourishment that remains a defining local issue in Walton County politics today
