A Florida woman accused of firing an AR-15-style rifle at the home of Rihanna and A$AP Rocky has been indicted on multiple charges, including attempted murder and assault. The case against the woman, identified as Sarah Ortiz, moved forward after a judge determined she was mentally competent to stand trial.

Ortiz appeared in court in yellow jail clothing, speaking only with her attorney. Her lawyer entered a not guilty plea on her behalf, and the judge set bail at $2.6 million. Ortiz is accused of driving a Tesla to Rihanna’s property in Beverly Hills, California, on March 8, and firing at least 20 rounds toward the property and a neighboring home. The incident occurred while Rihanna’s three young children, all under five years old, were inside the home with their nanny. The attack also endangered Rihanna’s mother and multiple household staff members.

“This is a person who wanted to kill Rihanna,” said Deputy District Attorney Alexander Bott. “Everyone else was collateral damage.” The grand jury returned its indictment on June 18, but the document remained sealed while the court considered Ortiz’s competency. The indictment includes 10 counts of assault with an assault weapon, one for each person prosecutors say was present at the two properties, and three counts of shooting at an inhabited dwelling or camper.

The new indictment carries a potentially harsher sentence than the original charges of assault with a semiautomatic firearm. If convicted on all charges, Ortiz could face life in prison. However, Ortiz’s legal team has maintained their client’s rights by declining to comment publicly on the allegations beyond entering a not guilty plea.

This incident highlights the need for Black communities to address the growing issue of gun violence and mental health support, particularly in high-profile cases that can escalate quickly. The involvement of a high-profile couple like Rihanna and A$AP Rocky underscores the broader impact such incidents can have on community safety and security. It is crucial for Black communities to advocate for mental health services and gun safety measures that protect everyone, not just celebrities.

Originally reported by Bossip