Norriego Point update | Residents voice concerns as city & county work toward ‘conflict resolution’
Destin and Okaloosa County officials are working toward a compromise over who should manage Norriego Point. A proposed agreement would give Destin jurisdiction over the property in exchange for free parking for Okaloosa County residents. Officials and residents raised concerns about development, land-use regulations, jurisdiction and the property’s future.
Mark Franks Rises to Top Leadership Post at Florida League of Cities
Shalimar Mayor Mark Franks has been elected president of the Florida League of Cities for the 2026-2027 term. The lifelong Okaloosa County resident will lead the statewide organization’s advocacy and member engagement efforts while representing the interests of Florida’s municipalities and promoting local decision-making throughout his one-year term.
Antonio Haner Identified in Deadly Crestview Deputy-Involved Shooting
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office has identified Antonio Austin Haner, 29, as the man killed during an August 8 encounter on Alabama Street in Crestview. Authorities say Haner opened fire on deputies, striking law enforcement assets and nearby properties. No deputies were injured. FDLE is conducting an independent investigation.
Summer Sentinel Sting Nets 9 Suspects in Okaloosa County
Investigators with the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office and federal partners arrested nine men during “Operation Summer Sentinel,” a four‑day undercover sting targeting adults who believed they were meeting minors for sex. A registered sex offender on pretrial release was also arrested for violating his conditions. Officials say the operation highlights growing online risks to children.
Meet Niceville’s New Distinguished Young Woman for 2027
Niceville High School senior Julia Milz has been selected as the Distinguished Young Woman of Okaloosa County for 2027, earning recognition for her academic excellence, leadership and character.
Fort Walton Beach Man Faces Life in Prison After Federal Fentanyl Indictment
A Fort Walton Beach man has been federally indicted on charges alleging he trafficked more than 400 grams of fentanyl.
3 of 5 Bluewater board members resign, citing concerns over fellow member’s behavior
Three of five Bluewater Municipal Services Benefit Unit board members resigned in May, citing concerns about a fellow board member’s conduct and the board’s ability to function. The resignations leave the MSBU without a quorum, preventing members from taking official action while county officials determine next steps.
Taxpayers spent $150K to jail him after he allegedly shot a tractor. Five years later, he’s free. A look into Florida’s competency laws.
After spending more than five years in custody without a trial, Ronald Wayne Allen was released from the Okaloosa County Jail, spotlighting Florida’s competency restoration system and its costs to taxpayers.
Jail Attack Leads to New Charge for Accused Ledford Killer
A man awaiting trial in the Mike Ledford murder case now faces a separate felony charge after deputies say he participated in a violent attack inside the Okaloosa County Jail.
Cocaine, Pills Found in a Car Carrying an Unrestrained Child
An Okaloosa County traffic stop led to cocaine trafficking and child abuse charges after deputies reportedly found drugs and an unsecured child inside a vehicle.
