July 31, 2023 WALTON COUNTY, Fla— Deputies make a gruesome discovery during a sex offender check in DeFuniak Springs. On Friday, July 29th Walton County Sheriff’s Deputies were attempting to conduct a sex offender check on Eric Antonio Roberts, 49, of Honeysuckle Street in DeFuniak Springs when they noticed a strong odor coming from inside the residence. Due to the inability to make contact with the offender and verify his well-being, entry was made into the home where deputies found two dogs inside a kennel clearly deceased. The animals were chained together using a padlock and did not have access to food or water. The electricity had been turned off inside the home and the back door had also been padlocked. Deputies checked with local hospitals and family in an effort to locate Roberts. Roberts was located a short time later at a gas station on Highway 90. He confirmed his address and that the dogs were his. When being taken under arrest, Roberts immediately started to reach toward his pocket. Cocaine was located inside a glasses case Roberts attempted to retrieve during his arrest. Roberts is charged with two counts of aggravated animal cruelty and possession of cocaine. He was issued a $15,000 bond and is still incarcerated at the time of this release.  https://waltonso.org/news/feed/ Read More

September 9th and 10th The seventh annual Emerald Coast Holistic Health Expo is set to take place on September 9th and 10th at the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Conference Center. The expo will feature an exhibit hall and market open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. This highly anticipated event, now in its seventh year, will offer free admission and welcome all visitors to explore a diverse range of indoor and outdoor exhibit spaces, demonstrations, and presentations focusing on holistic health and wellness. Co-founded by Scott Chase and his wife, Daralyn, the expo has experienced significant growth over the years, becoming one of the most prominent annual events in the area. Scott and Daralyn are also known for their work with Natural Awakenings magazine in Northwest Florida. “Throughout Northwest Florida, we saw a surge of new businesses offering services and products dedicated to holistic wellness and environmental sustainability,” explains Daralyn. “With Natural Awakenings already enjoying a loyal following of readers and advertisers, it made sense to create an event where they could come together to explore and promote the vast world of natural health and green living.” This year’s expo will feature exhibitors showcasing their services and products, delivering presentations, and offering samples and experiences to attendees. Exciting door prizes, including gift certificates, spa packages, and gift baskets, will also be up for grabs. Limited vendor/exhibit space may still be available. For more information or to inquire about securing a spot,... Read More