LAREDO, Texas (KGNS) – A former Unified Independent School District (UISD) teacher has pleaded not guilty to charges of possessing and distributing child pornography. The case involves Roberto Ortiz Jr., who was indicted earlier this year following an investigation by the FBI.

Federal agents executed a search warrant at Ortiz’s home on June 4, where they reportedly found numerous files containing child pornography. According to authorities, Ortiz allegedly directed them to the location of files on his computer. The search was prompted by information received in March that showed four files were downloaded from a Laredo IP address linked to Ortiz.

Ortiz, who was working as a teacher and coach at UISD at the time, was immediately placed on administrative leave following the search. In July, the district confirmed that Ortiz no longer worked for them.

A federal grand jury returned a three-count indictment against Ortiz on June 25, charging him with possession, receipt and distribution of child pornography. The charges stem from allegations that Ortiz used a peer-to-peer file sharing app to distribute illegal files.

Ortiz is requesting a jury trial, which is expected to take place in Laredo federal court in 2025. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

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