Former Florida Sheriff's Deputy Acquitted in Airman's Death Case
A Florida court has found former sheriff's deputy Eddie Duran not guilty of killing US Air Force member Roger Fortson while on duty.
A Florida jury has acquitted former sheriff's deputy Eddie Duran of manslaughter for fatally shooting US Air Force personnel Roger Fortson at an apartment he entered following a false report.
Development of the Incident and Court Decision
In the trial held in Florida, the jury cleared former sheriff's deputy Eddie Duran of the manslaughter charge following approximately two hours of deliberation. If convicted, the defendant could have faced up to 30 years in prison.
Background and Moments of the Incident
In May 2024, 38-year-old Duran, who was dispatched to an apartment in Fort Walton Beach following a false domestic disturbance report, knocked on the door and opened fire on Fortson, who opened the door holding a firearm. The events were captured on police body cameras.
Legal Process and Reactions
Following the acquittal after the four-day trial, the family's attorney, Ben Crump, stated that the legal battle would continue in civil courts. The federal civil rights lawsuit filed by the family is still ongoing.