LOS ANGELES – A judge has decided to pause the prosecution of a woman, Ivanna Lisette Ortiz, who is facing serious charges, including the attempted murder of the famous singer Rihanna. This decision came during a recent court meeting where concerns were raised about Ortiz’s mental health and competency to stand trial.
Ortiz, who is 35 years old and from Orlando, Florida, has pleaded not guilty to shooting at Rihanna’s home, where the singer, her partner A$AP Rocky, and their children were present at the time. The judge, Shannon K. Cooley, has ordered psychiatric evaluations to assess Ortiz’s mental state and has sent the case to a mental health court in Hollywood.
The Deputy Public Defender, Derek Dillman, expressed doubts about Ortiz’s ability to understand the trial process. He emphasized that it is crucial for her rights to be protected and for her to assist in her own defense if possible. Dillman stated, “It is the ethical obligation of counsel and the court to ensure that Ms. Ortiz’s rights are protected.”
If the mental health evaluation finds Ortiz incompetent, she could remain in a state hospital until she is deemed able to stand trial. She is scheduled to appear in court again soon, in a courtroom known for handling similar cases.
This incident occurred on March 8 when Ortiz allegedly drove up to Rihanna and A$AP Rocky’s property in a Tesla. Reports indicate that she pointed an AR-15 style rifle out of the window and fired at least 20 bullets towards their home and a neighboring house. Fortunately, no one was injured, but bullets struck a trailer where Rihanna and Rocky were inside, and investigators found bullet holes near a nursery where their children were with a nanny.
After her arrest, Ortiz reportedly told police, “I wasn’t attempting murder.” She is facing multiple charges, including 10 counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm and three counts of shooting at an occupied vehicle or dwelling. Interestingly, Ortiz has no prior criminal record and has worked as a licensed speech pathologist for over a decade.
As of now, authorities have not revealed any motive for Ortiz’s actions or any connection she may have with Rihanna. The situation remains serious and complex, particularly given the involvement of a high-profile celebrity like Rihanna, who is a celebrated musician with numerous awards and hits to her name.
