A 46-year-old man wanted in Georgia on an aggravated assault charge was arrested Thursday on a stretch of Delta Drive in El Paso, after a constable’s sergeant recognized him during patrol. Fernando Ortega was taken into custody without incident and booked on an additional local charge for unlawfully carrying a handgun.
According to KTSM 9 News, Ortega was arrested on Thursday, Nov. 5, by the El Paso County Constable’s Office, Precinct 3. Authorities said he had an outstanding Georgia warrant charging him with aggravated assault with a weapon, and the outlet reported that law enforcement described him as an “extremely dangerous” individual.
How the Arrest Unfolded Near Delta Drive
A sergeant with the constable’s office spotted Ortega in the area of the 1000 block of Delta Drive while on patrol, the station’s report states. Authorities said the sergeant reportedly saw Ortega get into a vehicle, drive away, and park at a nearby curb before officers moved in. Ortega was arrested without incident and jailed afterward, per the same account.
Data from the National Crime Information Center noted that Ortega had exhibited violent tendencies, the report notes. In addition to the Georgia warrant, he was booked locally on a charge of unlawful carrying of a handgun.
Constable Praises Sergeant’s Handling of a Volatile Situation
Constable Hector Bernal said executing criminal warrants involving individuals with documented violent tendencies requires sound judgment, situational awareness, and a commitment to officer and public safety. Bernal commended his sergeant for exercising caution, professionalism, and sound tactical judgment in safely apprehending Ortega without incident, according to the article.
Bernal also encouraged the public to report wanted individuals, particularly those considered dangerous. Residents with information can reach the El Paso County Constable’s Office, Precinct 3, at 915-273-3590.
The arrest echoes another recent case highlighted by KTSM, in which a constable traffic stop led to the capture of a wanted man from Colorado. It remains unclear whether Ortega will be transferred to Georgia to face the assault charge there, as that detail has not been confirmed.
