EPISODE · May 9, 2025 · 11 MIN
Justice for Airman Fortson
from Rick Outzen: (we don’t) color on the dog · host Rick Outzen
In this compelling episode of "We Don't Color On the Dog," host Rick Outzen speaks with attorney Brian Barr of Levin Papantonio about the recently filed federal lawsuit in the tragic shooting death of Senior Airman Roger Fortson.The decorated airman was shot six times by an Okaloosa County deputy in his own apartment after a false domestic disturbance report. Barr details how the lawsuit targets not only the deputy who has been criminally charged, but also the sheriff's office for alleged improper training and the apartment complex for providing misleading information that led to the fatal encounter.Barr emphasizes that Fortson, a highly trained C-130 gunner, "did nothing wrong" in the encounter - legally possessing a firearm held safely at his side when responding to aggressive knocking at his door. The body camera footage reveals the deputy shot Fortson almost immediately after ordering him to step back, not giving him time to comply.Beyond seeking accountability through both criminal and civil proceedings, Fortson's family hopes this case will help prevent similar tragedies, as Barr notes these incidents are "too common in occurrence and it needs to stop." The interview also touches on the profound impact on Fortson's family, who were uniquely proud of their son's service and achievements in the Air Force.
What this episode covers
In this compelling episode of "We Don't Color On the Dog," host Rick Outzen speaks with attorney Brian Barr of Levin Papantonio about the recently filed federal lawsuit in the tragic shooting death of Senior Airman Roger Fortson.The decorated airman was shot six times by an Okaloosa County deputy in his own apartment after a false domestic disturbance report. Barr details how the lawsuit targets not only the deputy who has been criminally charged, but also the sheriff's office for alleged improper training and the apartment complex for providing misleading information that led to the fatal encounter.Barr emphasizes that Fortson, a highly trained C-130 gunner, "did nothing wrong" in the encounter - legally possessing a firearm held safely at his side when responding to aggressive knocking at his door. The body camera footage reveals the deputy shot Fortson almost immediately after ordering him to step back, not giving him time to comply.Beyond seeking accountability through both criminal and civil proceedings, Fortson's family hopes this case will help prevent similar tragedies, as Barr notes these incidents are "too common in occurrence and it needs to stop." The interview also touches on the profound impact on Fortson's family, who were uniquely proud of their son's service and achievements in the Air Force.
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Justice for Airman Fortson
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