21-02-2025
Okaloosa County Deputy of the Year responded to 1,900 calls for service in 2024
SHALIMAR, Fla. (WKRG) — The Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office recognized its top law enforcement officers and staff Thursday morning at its annual awards ceremony, honoring those who went above and beyond in 2024.
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Sheriff Eric Aden presented awards for outstanding service, highlighting deputies and employees for their dedication to public safety, community outreach, and crisis response.
Among the honorees was Corporal Christopher Fordham, named 2024 Deputy of the Year for his commitment to public service.
Fordham has worked in law enforcement for 17 years, including the last five years with the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office.
Over the past year, he responded to nearly 1,900 calls for service — demonstrating his tireless work ethic and commitment to the community.
As a community resource deputy and member of the North District Patrol, Fordham regularly steps up for critical roles, assisting his team whenever needed.
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His leadership extends beyond law enforcement—he serves as vice president of OCSO Star Charities, where he helps organize charitable events, strengthen community ties, and assist families in need.
Fordham's impact also includes leading community engagement events. He played a key role in launching the inaugural OCSO Florida Sheriff's Youth Ranch Clay Shoot, which was such a success that it is now set to become an annual tradition.
Additionally, he led the first-ever Farm & Military Appreciation Event, which drew over 35 vendors, live performances, and interactive exhibits. The event was so well-received that it is already set to return in 2025.
Fordham's dedication extends to some of the most vulnerable members of the community. As a member of the Okaloosa County Health Improvement Partnership POST Response Team, he has worked on the front lines of the opioid crisis, providing life-saving resources and harm reduction services to families in need.
Fordham said serving the community is a privilege.
'You shouldn't take it for granted as a law enforcement officer, whether it's in the city, county or state, you, it's a privilege to go out and work and help and serve the community as best you can.'
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Other notable awards included:
School Resource Officer of the Year: Deputy Mark Kane, honored for his leadership at Crestview High School, where he helped students in crisis and acted quickly during a school fire.
Investigator of the Year: Investigator Tyler Colonna, recognized for his work in child abuse and overdose investigations, leading to arrests in high-profile cases.
Momma Jo Hunter Spirit of Excellence Award: Investigator Deja Riley, a former Army Combat Engineer, honored for her crisis negotiation skills and mental health advocacy.
Operations Bureau Outstanding Performer: Deputy Amy Gates, who handled nearly 2,750 calls and made 206 arrests while mentoring new deputies.
Communications Officer of the Year: Heather Willoughby, recognized for CPR guidance during emergencies and assisting in a roadside birth.
The awards also recognized administrative staff and volunteers, including Kimberly Blackmon for her legal work with Risk Protection Orders and Laurie Doughty, a former Air Force Senior Master Sergeant, who dedicated over 130 hours of volunteer service.
Fordham said the recognition motivates him to continue serving.
'That's the kind of stuff that motivation like that that you just the next thing is right around the corner. You never know what it is. You just be persistent with it. And it's, you know, serve as best you can.'
The Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office said the awards are a reminder of the dedication and sacrifices made daily by law enforcement.
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For Fordham and his fellow honorees, the recognition is meaningful, but the focus remains on protecting and serving the community.
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