The Irvine Police Department’s Special Investigations Unit’s months-long investigation ended with the arrest of Rudy Raul Ortega, 36, of Irvine.
Detectives linked Ortega and his associates to narcotics sales and identity theft across Orange County.
During the investigation, the police officers recovered methamphetamine, fentanyl, forged IDs, fraudulent checks, and credit card manufacturing equipment.
In total, SIU detectives served eight search warrants and arrested 11 people tied to drug sales and fraud.
All suspects were booked at the Orange County Jail.
Drug-Related Charges
1. Methamphetamine Possession for Sale (§11378 HS):
- This is a felony.
- Penalties include 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in jail.
- Fines can reach up to $10,000.
- No eligibility for drug diversion programs.
- Enhanced penalties apply if:
- The offense occurred near a rehab center or homeless shelter.
- A minor was involved.
- The quantity exceeded one kilogram.
2. Fentanyl Possession and Trafficking (§11350, §11351, §11352 HS):
- Simple possession is a misdemeanor: up to 1 year in jail.
- Possession for sale is a felony: 2 to 4 years in prison.
- Trafficking can lead to 3 to 9 years in prison, with increased penalties for crossing county lines or large quantities.
- Under AB 701, trafficking more than 1 kg adds +3 years, scaling up to +25 years for over 80 kg.
- If fentanyl leads to a death, suspects could face second-degree murder charges under PC 187.
Fraud-Related Charges
1. Identity Theft (§530.5 PC):
- This is a “wobbler” offense, meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony.
- Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in jail and $1,000 fine.
- Felony: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in jail, and up to $10,000 fine.
- Restitution to victims is often required.
2. Credit Card Fraud (Various Penal Code Sections):
- Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in jail, $1,000 fine, and possible probation.
- Felony: Up to 3 years in prison, $10,000 fine, and restitution.
- Charges depend on the scale of the fraud, use of counterfeit cards, and prior offenses.
Additional Notes
- Many of these offenses are not eligible for diversion programs if they involve intent to sell or large-scale operations.
- Repeat offenders or those with prior convictions may face enhanced sentences.
- Federal charges could apply if the crimes crossed state lines or involved large quantities of fentanyl.