Ivanna Ortiz, the woman accused of attacking Rihanna, is gearing up for a legal showdown after being arrested on Sunday, March 8.
The 35-year-old Florida resident is preparing to present her defense after securing a public defender. Earlier this week, prosecutors hit Ortiz with nearly 15 criminal charges, including one count of attempted murder, 10 counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm, and three additional counts for shooting at an inhabited dwelling or camper.
If convicted on all charges, Ortiz could be facing a life sentence behind bars. Her arraignment is scheduled for Wednesday, March 25.
As for who will represent her in court, Deputy Public Defender Jamarcus Bradford has taken on the case.
According to PEOPLE, Bradford initially entered a not guilty plea on Ortiz’s behalf. However, that plea was later withdrawn, with plans to wait until the arraignment before formally responding to the charges.
The outlet also contacted the Los Angeles Public Defender’s Office, which confirmed that Bradford has been assigned to the case. “[He] has been appointed to represent Ivanna Ortiz, who has been charged in connection with an alleged shooting incident near the residence of Rihanna.”
“Because this matter is pending before the Court, our Office cannot comment on the allegations at this time,” the spokesperson explained. “As in every case, we will work to ensure that our client receives the full protections guaranteed under the Constitution.”
Ortiz is accused of pulling up to the front of Rihanna’s residence and allegedly firing multiple shots at the property with a semiautomatic assault rifle. At the time of the incident, Rihanna, A$AP Rocky, their three children, Rihanna’s mother, and two staff members were reportedly inside the home.
Authorities also claim Ortiz fired at a neighboring house where two other people were present. If she hopes to secure release on bail, the amount set is $1.875 million.
When news of the incident first broke, many fans were understandably concerned about the safety of everyone involved, especially Rihanna. Fortunately, no injuries were reported at either home.
“Opening fire in any populated neighborhood is extremely dangerous, puts lives at risk and will be fully prosecuted,” Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman said in a press release. “Thankfully, no one was injured in this shooting, but this careless violence will not be tolerated in our community. Such shooters will find their next destination to be our jails and prisons.”
