State announces Morris investigation

State officials announced Thursday they have begun an independent investigation of former Okaloosa County Sheriff Charlie Morris.

State Attorney Bill Eddins said the Office of the State Attorney for the First Judicial District and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement have opened an investigation into the actions of former Okaloosa County Sheriff Charlie Morris for possible state criminal law violations. This investigation is separate and independent from the federal prosecution.

The investigation concerns actions by Morris and other individuals during his tenure as sheriff and is anticipated to be a thorough, detailed and lengthy investigation involving numerous allegations.

Interim Sheriff Edward Spooner and the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Department are cooperating fully with state officials.