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.
Lewis School Aide Charged with Abusing Student.
An Okaloosa County paraprofessional, Heather Bildstein, was arrested for allegedly striking a 5-year-old autistic student in the face at Lewis School in Valparaiso. While Bildstein denied the allegation, witnesses confirmed the incident, leading to a charge of Child Abuse Without Great Harm. The school district placed her on administrative leave.
Suspect killed in Crestview SWAT standoff may have intended to attack nearby school, Sheriff says
A man killed during a Crestview SWAT standoff may have intended to attack a nearby school, according to Okaloosa County Sheriff Eric Aden. Investigators discovered weapons, ammunition, gas masks and IEDs inside the suspect’s home after he opened fire on police executing a Risk Protection Order.
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 stranger’s 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.
