Michael Ortega-Alvarez, Methamphetamine Trafficking, Kansas 2014

Wichita Man Sentenced to 7+ Years for Methamphetamine Trafficking

A Wichita man was sentenced to 92 months in federal prison for trafficking in methamphetamine, a crime that has plagued the city for years. Michael Ortega-Alvarez, 46, of Wichita, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

The crime dates back to April 29, 2014, when Ortega-Alvarez met a Wichita police officer, who was working undercover, at a Quick Trip at 6011 W. Central and sold him an ounce of methamphetamine for $1,100. The undercover operation led to further investigation and the discovery of a pound of methamphetamine in a red and white cooler in Ortega-Alvarez’s truck.

On May 6, 2014, Wichita police stopped Ortega-Alvarez’s truck at 3100 E. 31st South. Police found two bags of methamphetamine that weighed about a pound each hidden in a brown pillow in the truck. An additional pound of methamphetamine was located at his residence.

Ortega-Alvarez’s guilty plea admitted to the sale of the methamphetamine and the possession of the additional pounds found in his truck and residence. The court’s decision to sentence him to 92 months in federal prison reflects the severity of the crime.

Grissom commended the Wichita Police Department and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Jacobs for their work on the case, which brought Ortega-Alvarez to justice. The case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat the trafficking of methamphetamine in the city.

Co-defendant Manuel Bencomo-Rodriguez is set for sentencing Jan. 5, and it remains to be seen how the case against him will unfold. However, the sentencing of Ortega-Alvarez serves as a reminder of the consequences of involvement in methamphetamine trafficking.

Mandatory Facts:

• Defendant/Respondent: Michael Ortega-Alvarez
• Criminal Charges: Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine
• City and State: Wichita, Kansas
• Sentence or Outcome: 92 months in federal prison
• Dollar Amounts: $1,100

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