The family of U.S. Air Force airman Roger Fortson, who was fatally shot by a Florida sheriff’s deputy three months ago, is demanding answers on whether charges will be brought against the former lawman. Civil rights attorney Ben Crump questioned the delay in the investigation, pointing out that the shooting was captured on the deputy’s body camera. The incident occurred on May 3 in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, when Fortson answered the door of his apartment holding a handgun pointed toward the floor and was shot within seconds by Deputy Eddie Duran.
Okaloosa County Sheriff Eric Aden fired Duran, stating that his life was never in danger and that the use of deadly force was not objectively reasonable. An internal affairs investigation by the sheriff’s office also found that Fortson did not make any hostile or attacking movements. Crump announced at a news conference that authorities have indicated a decision on charges will be made on August 23, prompting the family and supporters to mark their calendars for that date. State Attorney Ginger Bowden Madden was unavailable for comment on the matter.
Roger Fortson, who was originally from metro Atlanta, was stationed at the Air Force’s Hurlburt Field in the Florida Panhandle. His funeral in May saw hundreds of Air Force members paying their respects to the fallen airman. Crump emphasized that the evidence needed for charging the former deputy is readily available and urged the state attorney to take action. The family and their lawyer are pushing for accountability in the case and seeking justice for Fortson.
The decision on whether to bring charges against the former deputy has been a source of frustration for Fortson’s family, as the incident was captured on video and witnesses have provided statements. The delay in the investigation has raised concerns among supporters and civil rights activists, who fear that the case may be swept under the rug. Crump’s team has been vocal about their expectations for a decision on charges, highlighting the importance of holding law enforcement accountable for their actions.
The call for justice in Fortson’s case extends beyond his family and legal team, resonating with the broader community that seeks transparency and accountability in law enforcement. The upcoming decision on charges will be a pivotal moment in determining the outcome of the case and addressing the concerns raised by the shooting incident. As the August 23 deadline approaches, pressure mounts on the state attorney’s office to deliver a just resolution in the investigation into the killing of Senior Airman Roger Fortson.
