Booking photo for Richard A. Ortiz (Courtesy: Cache County Jail).
LOGAN — A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for a 30-year-old Logan man who allegedly threatened his ex-wife, resulting in a standoff with SWAT teams outside a Millville Home. Richard A. Ortiz was originally arrested January 2 and booked into the Cache County Jail.
Ortiz appeared in 1st District Court Monday morning. He was previously charged with stalking, distribution of pornography by an adult and possession of drugs within a correctional facility, all third-degree felonies; also misdemeanors for possession or use of a controlled substance, criminal trespass and electronic harassment.
Defense attorney Michael McGinnis asked the court for the preliminary hearing, where judge will hear prosecutors evidence and determine whether there is probable cause to bind Ortiz over for trial. The hearing was scheduled for February 18.
On January 2, law enforcement was called to the Millville home near 200 East 300 South. The alleged victim had reported being threatened and harassed.
Ortiz was found inside a vehicle, parked outside the home. He had also allegedly made threats of harming himself or wishing to die by law enforcement.
SWAT teams located Ortiz’s vehicle and set up a perimeter around the area. They also restricted traffic near the home.
Negotiators were able make contact with Ortiz on the phone. The woman, who was not at the residence at the time of the incident, had recently re-filed a protective order against the suspect. Deputies were able to determine that she was safe.
SWAT teams were called off once they learned that there wasn’t any immediate danger. Several deputies were assigned to continue patrolling the area to monitor the scene. They later arrested Ortiz without incident.
Court records show Ortiz has been convicted on multiple drug charges during the past ten years. He is currently out of jail after posting $18,000 bail and could face up to five years in prison if convicted.
will@cvradio.com