New Britain Man Admits Stealing Firearms from Colebrook Residence
David B. Fein, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that EDWARD N. ORTIZ, also known as "Heavy," 37, of New Britain, pleaded guilty today before United States Magistrate Judge Donna F. Martinez in Hartford to one count of conspiracy to steal firearms and possess stolen firearms, and one count of possession of firearms by a previously convicted felon.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on May 9, 2011, ORTIZ and a co-conspirator entered a residence in Colebrook and stole 12 firearms. The investigation has revealed that the majority of the stolen firearms were later sold to others, including street-level drug dealers.
ORTIZ has previously been convicted of multiple felony offenses, including possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, first and second degree assault, possession of narcotics and sale of hallucinogens/narcotics.
It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
At the time of offense, ORTIZ was on federal supervised release following a conviction for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
ORTIZ is scheduled to be sentenced by United States District Judge Robert N. Chatigny on December 21, 2012, at which time ORTIZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years.
ORTIZ is detained in state custody on unrelated charges.
This case is being investigated by the ATF, the Connecticut State Police, and the New Britain Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan S. Freimann.
The Project Safe Neighborhoods Initiative is aimed at reducing gun and gang violence, deterring illegal possession of guns, and improving the safety of Connecticut residents.
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