Maximum Sentence: 30 Years to Life for James Victor Ortega

San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas announced that James Victor Ortega was sentenced to 30 years to life in state prison, bringing a definitive end to a case that began with a brutal crime spree on September 24, 2021.

Ortega was previously convicted of first-degree murder, first-degree burglary, auto theft, battery, and felony evading. The 2021 incident involved a senseless assault on a pedestrian, a burglary where Ortega murdered the victim with a shovel and a knife on his front porch, and a high-speed pursuit through the city in a stolen FedEx delivery truck.

“James Victor Ortega terrorized our streets and stole a life with unthinkable cruelty", said District Attorney Ron Freitas. "This sentence ensures that his reign of violence ends in a prison cell, and that our community is finally safe from his depravity.”

District Attorney Freitas highlighted the exceptional work of Deputy District Attorney Janet Smith, whose "unwavering commitment to the facts and the victim secured this life sentence." He also expressed deep gratitude to Sergeant Lambertson and the Stockton Police Department for their tireless investigative work, and Alexis Soto of the District Attorney’s Office for her vital assistance in preparing the case for trial.

Special recognition was given to Victim Witness Advocate Rachel Fichtner, who has stood by the victim’s family since the onset of the tragedy. Freitas also took a moment to honor the Good Samaritan nurse who treated the victim at the scene, noting that her courage and humanity stood in stark contrast to the defendant’s actions.