The Relentless Citizen: Alan Osborne’s Second Mission
Alan Osborne spent 35 years in Army and Air Force Special Operations before turning his focus to local government oversight. Now a familiar figure at public meetings across Walton and Okaloosa counties, he digs through records, challenges officials, and says his work is simply an extension of the oath he took decades ago.
Chambers criticizes ‘smear campaign’ in social media post
Okaloosa County School District Superintendent Marcus Chambers has publicly responded to allegations of misconduct involving district hiring, investigations and employee conduct. In a social media post, Chambers called the accusations unfounded and criticized opponents he says have targeted his family. The allegations remain a subject of scrutiny among local residents and advocacy groups.
Niceville PD nab the (alleged) Turkey Creek Streaker
A 46-year-old Milton man was arrested on August 6, 2026, following a public indecent exposure incident at Turkey Creek in Niceville. Bradley Patrick was taken into custody in Santa Rosa County on an active Niceville Police Department warrant and is currently awaiting extradition to Okaloosa County to face charges.
Okaloosa School District shares former student data for recruitment campaign
The Okaloosa County School District is spending nearly $100,000 to recruit students back into public schools after enrollment declines tied to expanded school choice. Mid Bay News examines how the campaign works, what taxpayer dollars are funding, what student information was shared with a third-party company, and whether the effort is paying off.
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.
Eglin Fighter Jets Set for Training Flights Aug. 4-6
Residents near Eglin Air Force Base may hear fighter aircraft overhead during nighttime hours Aug. 4-6. The 60th Fighter Squadron will conduct training missions between 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. Eglin officials said the nighttime flights are required for training operations and may result in increased aircraft noise.
Former Okaloosa deputy charged in airman’s murder seeks dismissal
The court recessed until August 4 after a day-long hearing concerning a motion to dismiss the murder case against former Okaloosa Deputy Eddie Duran. The hearing featured emotional testimony from Fortson’s girlfriend, Tatyiana Hendricks, alongside medical examiner findings and statements from Fortson’s neighbors and friends regarding the events in May 2024.
Federal complaints filed against Okaloosa County School District
A local advocacy group has filed complaints with the State Attorney and U.S. Department of Justice alleging the Okaloosa County School District violated Florida’s Sunshine Law and failed to properly investigate allegations involving senior administrators. District officials have not yet responded, and the complaints remain under review.
1950: “Playground City” Sheriff gets suspended by irate governor
Today in History, Governor Fuller Warren removed Okaloosa County Sheriff Isle Enzor amid accusations of lax gambling law enforcement. The removal followed investigations into illegal casino activity at the Magnolia and Shalimar clubs. Discover the full story behind this historical political scandal on the Emerald Coast at midbaynews.com.
End of an Era: Dr. Diane Kelley Retires as Destin High Names New Principal
Destin High School has announced a major leadership transition, naming Jill McNamara as principal and Matt Means as assistant principal. Longtime principal Dr. Diane Kelley is retiring after 45 years in education but will remain involved as advisor to the governing board and legislative lobbyist.
