Raphael Ortiz, Fentanyl Trafficking, Ohio 2021

Raphael Ortiz, a 40-year-old man from Youngstown, Ohio, has been charged with fentanyl trafficking after a multi-agency investigation uncovered a large quantity of the synthetic opioid.

According to the indictment, Ortiz was found to be in possession of approximately 2.8 kilograms of fentanyl, as well as several firearms, including semi-automatic pistols and a Remington pump-action shotgun. The investigation, led by the FBI and the Mahoning Valley Law Enforcement Task Force, also uncovered over $26,000 in cash.

Ortiz has a prior record of convictions for drug trafficking, possession of heroin, and assault on a peace officer. As a result, he is prohibited from possessing firearms.

The indictment charges Ortiz with seven counts, including possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, distribution of fentanyl, using and maintaining a drug premise, and possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

The investigation began on January 6, 2021, when law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Ortiz’s residence. During the search, investigators discovered the large quantity of fentanyl and several firearms.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Yasmine Makridis. If convicted, Ortiz faces a sentence to be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to the case.

Raphael Ortiz, a Youngstown man with prior convictions for drug trafficking, possession of heroin, and assault on a peace officer, was charged in a seven-count indictment handed down by a federal grand jury in Cleveland. Ortiz, age 40, was charged with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, distribution of fentanyl, using and maintaining a drug premise, possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and as a felon in possession of firearms.

An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

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