United States Drug Enforcement Administration

Phoenix, ARIZ – On March 26, 2026, Ismael Alejandro Ortiz was sentenced to five years in prison by the Pima County Superior Court.

On July 29, 2025, in Pima County, Arizona, Ortiz attempted to knowingly transport approximately 12.9 pounds of cocaine for sale, using a mobile barbershop bus as cover to arrive at the drug deal location.

He was also ordered to pay $4,500 to the State Anti-Racketeering Revolving Fund. Ortiz pled guilty to Attempt to Transport a Narcotic Drug for Sale, a class 3 felony.

The drug deal was facilitated on WhatsApp, a platform owned by Meta.

“My office will keep prosecuting those who transport dangerous drugs into Arizona communities,” said Attorney General Mayes. “I am grateful for the work of our law enforcement partners and our attorneys in my office who work every day to keep Arizonans safe.”

The case was investigated by the DEA and prosecuted by Assistant Attorney General Sabrina Lochner.