⏱ 2 min read
Melbi Ovidio Ortez, a 41-year-old Salvadoran national, was selling guns and cocaine out of his Chelsea, Massachusetts residence. Between April 3, 2025, and May 2, 2025, Ortez made multiple illegal firearms sales, peddling guns and ammo to gang members. He was arrested in June 2025 and later pleaded guilty to engaging in the business of dealing in firearms without a license and distribution of a controlled substance.
Ortez, an associate of the 18th Street Gang, sold a variety of firearms, including a Glock 9mm pistol, a Sturm and Ruger .22 caliber revolver, and a Colt .380 caliber pistol. He also sold over 100 rounds of ammunition and magazines. The serial numbers on two of the guns had been defaced, and one of the pistols had been purchased just 20 days earlier from a licensed dealer in New Hampshire.
Ortez’s crimes didn’t stop at gun sales. He also sold cocaine on two occasions during the same period. His actions put the community at risk, and law enforcement took notice. The FBI, ATF, and local police departments worked together to bring Ortez to justice.
On the day of sentencing, U.S. District Court Chief Judge Denise J. Casper handed down a 27-month prison sentence, followed by three years of supervised release. Ortez will also face deportation upon completion of his sentence. The case was announced by United States Attorney Leah B. Foley, along with the heads of the FBI and ATF’s Boston divisions.
Related Federal Cases
- Charles Baker, Dealing in Firearms without a License, Massachusetts 2019 · Massachusetts
- Joao Vitor Dos Santos Goncalves Pimenta, Selling Firearms Without a License, Massachusetts 2025 · Alabama
- Dominick Bailey, Felon in Possession of Firearms and Ammunition, Massachusetts 2019 · Vermont
- Edwin Quezada, Firearms Conspiracy, Massachusetts 2022 · Alabama
- Tyler A. Augusto, Straw Firearms Purchases, Massachusetts 2023 · Alabama
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Weapons
- Defendant: Massachusetts
- Location: MA
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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