In response to the recent demands made by the NAACP Okaloosa Branch regarding the shooting death of Senior Airman Roger Fortson, Okaloosa County Sheriff Eric Aden has issued a statement acknowledging the concerns raised and reaffirming his commitment to transparency and accountability in the ongoing investigation.
Sheriff Aden confirmed that he has been in close communication with the NAACP Okaloosa Branch, U.S. Air Force leadership at Hurlburt Field, elected officials, and other community partners since the tragic incident occurred.
- The Sheriff’s office invited local NAACP leadership to privately view the available body-worn camera footage related to the case.
Currently, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) is conducting a criminal investigation into the shooting. The Sheriff stated that requests for documentation related to the investigation are exempt under Florida Statute Chapter 119.071, as they are part of an active criminal investigation.
- However, Sheriff Aden says his office remains closely connected with FDLE regarding the progress of the investigation.
In a meeting with the NAACP and Hurlburt Field leadership, Sheriff Aden emphasized his commitment to doing what is right and assured the community of his firm commitment to transparency and accountability.
“For our part, we wish to assure the NAACP Okaloosa Branch, its stakeholders, and our community of our firm commitment to transparency and accountability,” he said.”
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s office has asked for patience as the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and State Attorney’s office conduct a thorough review of the facts in the case. The Sheriff says his office continues to pray for Mr. Fortson and his family during this difficult time.
2 Responses
The fact is most police do not want you armed, even in your own home. What little power they have is nullified some by armed citizenry.
The fact is he fired on that young man within 3 seconds and did not warn or instruct the Airman to put down the weapon before firing upon him in complete and utter fear even though the weapon was not even pointed at him. While I can’t be completely certain why he fired upon him in Fear so fast, I have my suspicions, ones that I wish did not exist! The police in this area have done this before, just shooting without knowing the facts, due to Fear! Fear is what killed this decorated Airman. The logical response should have been to direct the Airman to place the weapon down FIRST, before using deadly force. I don’t need any investigation or police training see that very clearly! The deputy failed and the Airman paid dearly for his failure PERIOD!