BY MIRABEL ODETA
A Florida woman pleaded not guilty on Wednesday to charges stemming from an alleged shooting incident targeting the Los Angeles home of Rihanna earlier this month. Authorities say the suspect fired multiple gunshots at the property, raising serious concerns about the safety of those inside at the time.
The defendant, Ivana Lisette Ortiz, made a brief appearance in Los Angeles Superior Court dressed in yellow jail-issued clothing. Her attorney entered a not guilty plea on her behalf to 14 charges, including one count of attempted murder and 10 felony counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm. The case is being closely watched due to the severity of the allegations and the high-profile nature of the victim.
Judge Theresa McGonigle denied a request from the defense to lower Ortiz’s bail, which remains set at $1.875 million. In addition, the judge ordered that Ortiz, 35, is prohibited from working as a licensed speech therapist in California while the legal proceedings are ongoing. The restriction reflects concerns about public safety and professional accountability as the case moves forward.
Ortiz, a resident of Orlando, Florida, could face a maximum sentence of life in prison if she is found guilty on all charges. Prosecutors outlined the seriousness of the accusations, emphasizing the potential for catastrophic consequences during the incident.
According to prosecutors, Ortiz allegedly drove to the front of Rihanna’s residence in the Beverly Crest neighborhood on a Sunday afternoon and fired approximately 20 rounds toward the home. At the time, the singer was reportedly inside with her partner, A$AP Rocky, and their three young children. Despite the volume of gunfire, no injuries were reported.
In court, Deputy District Attorney Alexander Bott described the situation as extremely dangerous, stating that the incident could easily have resulted in multiple deaths. His remarks underscored the seriousness with which authorities are treating the case.
After the shooting, Ortiz allegedly fled the scene but was apprehended a short time later in Los Angeles. Prosecutors said she was found in a vehicle with a rifle and a wig, which they believe may have been intended as a disguise.
Rihanna, known for global hits like We Found Love and Umbrella, is a nine-time Grammy Award winner and one of the most recognized figures in the music industry. The case has drawn widespread attention not only because of her celebrity status but also due to the alarming nature of the alleged attack.
As the legal process continues, further hearings are expected to determine how the case will proceed, including whether additional evidence or testimony will shape the outcome.
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