A Florida sheriff’s deputy, Eddie Duran, was fired and charged with manslaughter after shooting U.S. Air Force senior airman, Roger Fortson, at Fortson’s apartment door. Duran’s body camera recorded the incident, showing Fortson opening the door with a gun pointed at the floor before being shot by Duran. Initially claiming self-defense, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office fired Duran after an internal investigation determined his life was not in danger. Duran is facing up to 30 years in prison if convicted of manslaughter with a firearm.
During a pretrial detention hearing, Duran’s lawyer argued for bond, stating that Duran is not a flight risk. Judge Terrance R. Ketchel allowed bond for Duran, who had been ordered held prior to the hearing. The shooting of Fortson, who was alone in his apartment at the time of the incident, sparked debate over Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” law.
The fatal shooting of the Black airman by law enforcement in his own home added to the ongoing discussion of police brutality against Black individuals. Fortson’s funeral was attended by hundreds of Air Force members, family, and friends. The incident highlights the need for accountability and reform within law enforcement agencies. The case will proceed to trial with Judge Ketchel overseeing the proceedings.
This article was brought to you by Kate Payne, a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative, which places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
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