Former New Mexico Judge and Wife Arrested for Harboring Illegal Immigrant Linked to Venezuelan Gang
Date: 25-apr-2025 | By: Nuztrend Team
In a stunning development from Las Cruces, New Mexico, federal agents have arrested former Magistrate Judge Jose "Joel" Cano and his wife, Nancy Cano, for allegedly harboring an illegal immigrant in their guesthouse. The individual in question has been identified as Cristhian Ortega-Lopez, a Venezuelan national with suspected ties to the violent criminal organization Tren de Aragua.
The arrest occurred on April 24, 2025, following a raid by U.S. federal agents who were tipped off about Ortega-Lopez's residence inside the judge’s property. Officials say the former judge and his wife had initially hired Ortega-Lopez for home repairs before allowing him to live on their property.
Allegations and Evidence
According to investigators, Ortega-Lopez had crossed the border illegally in December 2023. During the raid, agents reportedly discovered:
- Tattoos and symbols linked to the Tren de Aragua gang
- Firearms and ammunition on the property
- Social media activity suggesting gang affiliation
The situation escalated when additional weapons were found in the home of the couple’s daughter, April Cano, who is also under investigation. Agents allege that the Canos knowingly allowed Ortega-Lopez to stay despite his undocumented status and criminal ties.
Legal Fallout and Resignation
In the wake of the scandal, Joel Cano, who had served as a magistrate judge in Doña Ana County, had already resigned in March 2025. The New Mexico Supreme Court has since barred him from ever holding judicial office again in the state.
Also Read
The Canos now face serious federal charges related to harboring and aiding an illegal immigrant involved in organized crime. Legal experts believe the case may set a precedent regarding public officials’ accountability in immigration-related offenses.
A Broader Concern
The arrest has triggered national discussions around border security, public trust in the judiciary, and the growing reach of transnational criminal groups like Tren de Aragua. Homeland Security officials have called the case “deeply troubling,” especially given the judge’s former role in upholding the law.
No official plea has been entered by the Canos, and their legal team has declined to comment at this time.
💬 Leave a Comment
📝 Recent Comments
No comments yet! Be the first one to comment.
🔄 Read More
⬅ Previous: Neeraj Chopra Withdraws Invite to Arshad Nadeem Amid Pahalgam Attack Backlash
Date: 25-Apr-2025
Indian Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra rescinds his invitation to Pakistani athlete Arshad Nadeem following public backlash tied to the Pahalgam terror attack.
Next: Russian General Yaroslav Moskalik Killed in Moscow Suburb Car Bombing ➡
Date: 25-Apr-2025
Lieutenant General Yaroslav Moskalik was killed in a car bomb attack near Moscow. The blast has escalated security concerns within Russia’s military leadership.
