A Fond du Lac man, Ricardo Ortiz, 26, has been indicted on charges related to sex trafficking of a minor and attempting to use a computer to entice a minor into sexual activity. The indictment was returned on May 20, 2025, as announced by Richard G. Frohling, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin.
The allegations against Ortiz include sex trafficking a minor on two occasions in March 2025 and attempting to persuade a minor to engage in unlawful sexual activity around April 8, 2025. These actions are violations under Title 18 of the United States Code.
If found guilty of any charges from the indictment, Ortiz could face a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison with the possibility of life imprisonment. Additionally, he may be fined up to $250,000 and would have to register as a sexual offender under both state and federal laws.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, an initiative by the U.S. Department of Justice aimed at combating child sexual exploitation and abuse. Launched in May 2006, it involves collaboration between federal, state, and local resources for better apprehension and prosecution of offenders exploiting children online.
The Oshkosh Police Department conducted the investigation leading to this indictment. Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble will handle the prosecution.
It is important to note that an indictment is merely an accusation and not proof of guilt. Ortiz remains presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt during his trial.
For further information regarding this case or Project Safe Childhood initiatives can be accessed through www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
