Defense Makes Immunity Push as Judge Weighs Fate of Duran Murder Case

Former Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Deputy Eddie Duran concluded his bid for Stand Your Ground immunity Wednesday as defense attorneys argued prosecutors failed to overcome evidence that the fatal shooting of Roger Fortson was legally justified. The judge ordered additional legal briefs before deciding whether the case will move forward.
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.
Destin councilwoman arrested after allegedly driving strangerβs truck from boat ramp

A Destin City Councilwoman is facing a criminal charge after police say she entered and drove a stranger’s truck without permission at a city boat ramp on July 4. Mayor Pro Tem Teresa Hebert was arrested on a charge of trespassing on conveyance. The case remains under investigation.
Holt Man Accused of Lewd Act and Assaulting Deputies During Arrest

A Holt man faces multiple charges after deputies say he exposed himself in public and assaulted officers during his arrest.
Federal Immigration Cases Highlight Repeat Illegal Reentry in Okaloosa County

Federal prosecutors announced 16 immigration convictions in June, including multiple cases originating in Okaloosa and Walton counties.
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.
Crestview Residents Face Decades in Prison in Federal Drug Case

Three Crestview residents have been indicted on federal cocaine trafficking charges and face lengthy prison sentences if convicted.
Escaped Baker Act Patient Found Safely Floating in Turkey Creek

A Baker Act patient who escaped from HCA Florida Twin Cities Hospital was safely located after a coordinated search through Turkey Creek involving K9, drone, and marine units.
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.
On the Clock Crime: Employee Admits to Identity Theft

A former Destin Wendyβs employee admitted to stealing identity theft, federal prosecutors say.