Oklahoma City Felon Convicted of Illegal Firearm Possession and Witness Tampering

Ortiz faces up to 35 years in prison after 2024 incident and conviction

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A federal jury has convicted a felon named Ortiz on charges of illegal firearm possession and witness tampering following a 2024 incident in Oklahoma City. Ortiz allegedly struck a vehicle, drew a firearm, and then fled the scene, later being arrested at his home where a gun was seized. During the trial, it was revealed that Ortiz made efforts to manipulate the outcome of the case by pressuring a witness to falsely claim ownership of the gun and attest to Ortiz's ignorance of its existence.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat violent crime and illegal firearm possession, especially among convicted felons. The successful prosecution also demonstrates the impact of collaborative efforts between federal, state, and local authorities through initiatives like Project Safe Neighborhoods.

The details

After the 2024 incident where Ortiz allegedly struck a vehicle and drew a firearm before fleeing, Oklahoma City police arrested him at his home and seized the weapon. During the trial, key evidence showed that Ortiz made phone calls, sent texts, and communicated through third parties in an attempt to pressure a witness to claim ownership of the gun and falsely attest to Ortiz's ignorance of its existence.

  • The incident occurred on October 14, 2024.
  • Ortiz was convicted by a federal jury on February 10, 2026.

The players

Ortiz

A felon with a criminal history including prior convictions for eluding an officer, use of a vehicle in the discharge of a weapon, and a rioting charge.

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives

The federal agency that collaborated with the Oklahoma City Police Department on the case against Ortiz.

Oklahoma City Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that arrested Ortiz and seized the firearm at his home.

Mary E. Walters

The Assistant U.S. Attorney who worked on the successful prosecution of the case.

Laney Ellis

The Special Assistant U.S. Attorney (SAUSA) who worked on the successful prosecution of the case, funded by a federal Project Safe Neighborhoods grant.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

At sentencing, Ortiz could serve up to 35 years in federal prison and face potential fines reaching half a million dollars.

The takeaway

The successful prosecution of Ortiz demonstrates the impact of collaborative efforts between federal, state, and local authorities through initiatives like Project Safe Neighborhoods, which aim to comprehensively reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer.