Trial of former deputy charged in the killing of Hurlburt airman may start Monday. This is what’s happened so far:
The manslaughter trial of former Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Deputy Eddie Duran is expected to begin following two years of legal delays, procedural motions, and emotional testimony. Duran faces charges in the fatal May 2024 shooting of Senior Airman Roger Fortson inside Fortson’s Fort Walton Beach apartment.
Okaloosa County to remove all Flock cameras after FDOT memo
Okaloosa County will remove Flock license plate recognition cameras from state and county roads after FDOT revoked local law enforcement permits for LPR technology. The order cites concerns over misuse, data privacy and surveillance. Sheriff Eric Aden said the removal is disappointing from a public safety standpoint.
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.
Courageous Student Report Leads to Arrest in School Threat Case
A Fort Walton Beach teen was arrested after escalating school shooting threats, with officials praising students who reported the behavior early.
Okaloosa County Commission approves $17.7M for SR 85 widening, new sheriff’s office evidence facility
The Okaloosa County Commission approved major surtax investments for a State Road 85 widening project and a new sheriff’s office evidence facility as part of a long-term strategy to address growth, congestion and public safety without raising property taxes.
Quick Thinking Shields Family as Police Close In on Fleeing Suspect
A coordinated police response led to the arrest of a suspect after an attempted carjacking, a stolen vehicle pursuit, and burglary of an occupied home.
Okaloosa Deputies, K9 Unit Apprehend Man Wanted on Multiple Domestic Battery Charges
An Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office K9 unit, alongside correctional institution teams, tracked and apprehended Anthony McLeod of Laurel Hill on Saturday after he attempted to flee through a swamp. Mcleod faces multiple domestic battery and criminal mischief charges.
OCSO Investigates I-10 Overpass Projectile Attack
OCSO Investigates I-10 Overpass Projectile Attack Staff Reports June 5, 2025 10:22 am Uncategorized In Brief: The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a case where concrete and eggs were thrown from the Wilkerson Bluff overpass onto Interstate 10 near Holt. Three commercial vehicles were struck and one passenger sustained minor injuries. The Okaloosa County […]
Slain Airman’s Mother Lays Blame At Okaloosa Sheriff’s Feet
In an emotionally charged NAACP town hall meeting, Chantemekki Fortson delivered a powerful speech condemning Okaloosa County Sheriff Eric Aden’s handling of her son Roger’s fatal shooting by former deputy Eddie Duran. Fortson called for Aden’s defeat in the August primary election, citing a loss of trust and accountability. The town hall, attended by approximately 250 people, also featured updates on the ongoing investigation and discussions on broader issues like racial bias and Christian Nationalism.
Children Chosen for Creativity in Tax Collector Tag Art Contest
The Okaloosa County School Board meeting was filled with excitement as Tax Collector Ben Anderson and Sheriff Eric Aden, along with Superintendent Marcus Chambers, presented the Award of Distinction to the winners of the Kids Tag Art Program. This program, which combines an art contest with a fundraising initiative, raised over $18,000 for school arts programs this year, showcasing the creative talents of local 5th graders and supporting the arts in Okaloosa County schools.
