The family of a Black US air force airman who tragically lost his life after being shot by deputies in his Florida Panhandle apartment is determined to set the record straight regarding the events leading up to his death. They are challenging the narrative presented by authorities.
Senior Airman Roger Fortson’s family, represented by civil rights attorney Ben Crump, is seeking clarity by reviewing body-camera footage. According to Crump, Fortson, unaware that it was law enforcement breaking in, reached for his legally owned firearm to defend himself in what he considered his sanctuary.
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Chantemekki Fortson, Fortson’s mother, emotionally entered a press conference with Crump, holding a framed portrait of her son in his military uniform. Tears flowed as Crump recounted the tragic events that unfolded in Fort Walton Beach.
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office is set to address the public later in the day. They have chosen not to disclose the identities or races of the deputies involved. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the local State Attorney’s Office will conduct an investigation into the shooting.
Crump explained that deputies responding to a disturbance mistakenly entered the wrong apartment and fatally shot Fortson upon seeing his gun. Fortson, feeling threatened, had armed himself after hearing noises outside and receiving no response to his inquiries.
Describing the shooting as unjustifiable, Crump urged the sheriff’s office to take responsibility instead of crafting a narrative of self-defense for the deputies.
He emphasized that Fortson, a good and exceptional individual, was simply going about his business in his own home. The sheriff’s deputies should have ensured they were at the correct location before forcefully entering.
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office has not yet responded to requests for comment on Crump’s version of events.
In a previous statement, the office claimed that the deputy acted in self-defense when faced with an armed individual during a disturbance call response. Details about the nature of the disturbance or the caller remain undisclosed.
Fortson, originally from Atlanta, succumbed to six gunshot wounds at the hospital. The deputy involved has been placed on administrative leave pending further investigation.
Crump stressed Fortson’s constitutional rights to possess a firearm and protection against unwarranted police intrusion. He led a chant with family members and attorneys demanding justice.
2024-05-09 13:41:56
Link from www.theguardian.com