Janisia Magallanes Stopped Bullying at Her School, Now She Protects Hundreds
Meet Deputy Janisia Magallanes, a Walton County Sheriff’s Office school resource officer (SRO) at Walton County High School. From standing up to bullying as a high school student to patrolling hallways and mentoring students today, she’s dedicated to student safety, school security, and community policing in DeFuniak Springs, Florida.
Former Santa Rosa County Commissioner James Calkins launches campaign for Walton County seat
Former Santa Rosa County Commissioner James Calkins launches a bid for Walton County Commission District 4, promising conservative leadership amid lingering controversy over his past political conduct.
Okaloosa County backs Rotary proposal to expand beach rescue tube program
Okaloosa County is considering a low-cost but potentially lifesaving project to expand rescue tube stations along local beaches — do you think these flotation devices could make a difference?
Crestview standoff ends in fatal police shooting on Ferdon Boulevard
A Crestview police standoff ended in an officer-involved shooting that killed an armed man who pointed a firearm at officers.
NEW INFO: Niceville Police Chief Says Officers Stopped Mass Murder
Niceville Police say a routine traffic stop uncovered an armed man planning a mass shooting, leading to his arrest and the seizure of multiple weapons
Fallout From Allegations Palpable at Fire Department Life Saving Ceremony
At Monday’s Valparaiso Commission meeting, firefighters Marquis Johnson, Josh Osmialowski, and Larry Hudson received life-saving awards for reviving a person who was electrocuted on Bayshore Drive. The recognition came amid tensions from an earlier dispute involving Fire Chief David Lanier, who was suspended over allegations of racial slurs, and Hudson, one of the firefighters who filed the complaint. The July 30 rescue involved using an AED to restart the victim’s heart before transporting them to the hospital.
Three hospitalized after multi-vehicle crash on State Road 20 in Bluewater Bay
Three people were hospitalized following a rear-end crash on State Road 20 in Niceville that pushed one SUV into oncoming traffic, causing a head-on collision.
Niceville Names New Fire Chief
The City of Niceville introduces Alex Kukulus as its new fire chief, with a public ceremony scheduled for July 11 to mark the leadership transition.
Tropical system could develop in Gulf ahead of July 4, Okaloosa officials monitoring
Public safety officials in Okaloosa County are urging residents to stay weather-aware as a tropical disturbance could form offshore during the July 4 holiday.
Mary Esther officials weigh options after sudden cancellation of animal control contract
Mary Esther officials weigh options after sudden cancellation of animal control contract Collin Bestor June 23, 2025 6:21 pm Mary Esther In Brief: 🐾 PAWS abruptly ends contract with Mary Esther, leaving the city without animal control services. 📈 New contract proposed higher rates, prompting council concerns over fairness and financial burden. 🏛️ Officials weigh […]
