GAINES COUNTY, Texas — Fernando Ortiz was arrested on Nov. 11 in Monahans for his involvement in a large-scale oilfield theft in Odessa, authorities said.
Ortiz is the sixth suspect connected to the November 9 theft on Nadinna Road, where steel rods, pipes, and other industrial equipment were stolen using multiple semi-trucks and flatbed trailers, according to the Gaines County Sheriff’s Office.
He was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant issued by Gaines County related to the original theft. Ortiz faces charges of Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity and Theft of Property valued between $30,000 and $150,000.
The sheriff’s office said the investigation is ongoing, following the initial arrests of five other individuals in connection with the scheme.
