Former Florida sheriff’s deputy Eddie Duran Jr. was charged with manslaughter after fatally shooting U.S. Air Force senior airman Roger Fortson in May. He was denied bail initially but was granted a $100,000 bond in a court hearing on Thursday. Duran’s attorney argued for his release, emphasizing his career in saving and helping people, while prosecutors deemed the charges serious.
The court ruled that Duran cannot possess firearms or contact Fortson’s family or witnesses. He must also stay in the First Judicial Circuit area of Florida. Duran was released following the hearing. The shooting occurred during a domestic disturbance call when Duran fatally shot Fortson at his apartment door. Crump, a civil rights attorney, spoke out on the incident, demanding justice for Fortson’s family.
Duran’s background reveals a career in law enforcement after serving in the military, specializing in crisis response and trauma. He had been fired by the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office after an internal investigation found his use of force unreasonable. Duran has a military and law enforcement background, starting in the Army in 2003 and transitioning to civilian law enforcement in Oklahoma before joining the Florida Sheriff’s Office.
The case has drawn national attention, and Duran’s charges were seen as a step towards justice for Fortson’s family. The internal investigation by the Sheriff’s Office led to Duran’s termination, indicating that his actions during the shooting were not objectively reasonable. Duran’s attorney argued for his release, emphasizing his career of serving and protecting the community.
Photo credit
www.usatoday.com