Former Judge and Spouse Arrested for Allegedly Shielding Illegal Gang Member

Former Judge and Spouse Arrested for Allegedly Shielding Illegal Gang Member

Joel Cano, the former Magistrate Judge of Doña Ana County, and his wife, Nancy Cano, were arrested on Thursday after federal agents executed a search warrant at their residence in Las Cruces. The couple now faces serious charges related to evidence tampering amid allegations that they harbored Cristhian Ortega-Lopez, an individual suspected of being an illegal immigrant and a member of Venezuela’s notorious Tren de Aragua gang.

Kristi Noem, the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, commented on the issue, stating that over 150,000 illegal aliens had been apprehended during the Trump administration, including more than 600 members of Tren de Aragua. Noem emphasized her department’s commitment to removing illegal immigrants who break the law. She asserted that anyone found in violation would be pursued, apprehended, and put behind bars.

Details of the Arrest

The recent arrests were triggered by an earlier incident in February when Ortega-Lopez was found at the Cano residence. Court documents indicate that Nancy Cano initially hired him for home repairs before subsequently offering him accommodation in the couple’s guesthouse. This decision has now raised numerous questions regarding their judgment and actions.

Investigators have reportedly discovered substantial evidence linking Ortega-Lopez to the Tren de Aragua gang. This includes gang-affiliated clothing and tattoos, as well as a series of voicemails and text messages that further corroborate his connections to the criminal organization.

Illegal Entry and Charges

Ortega-Lopez unlawfully entered the United States on December 15, 2023, crossing the border near Eagle Pass, Texas, without prior inspection or authorization. Just a few days later, he was released pending removal proceedings due to significant overcrowding at a Border Patrol facility. A Notice to Appear had been issued to initiate his formal removal process under the Immigration and Nationality Act.

Weapons Seized

In a subsequent investigation, authorities seized four firearms from the residence of April Cano, the couple’s daughter. Ortega-Lopez had been seen in several social media posts posing with firearms, some of which he claimed were owned by April. His possession of firearms as an illegal alien has led to federal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(5). If convicted, he could face a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.

Concerns about the Judiciary

John Fabbricatore, the former ICE Field Office Director, expressed his shock at the incident, highlighting that Doña Ana County has been historically significant for illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and human smuggling activities. He noted that it is particularly alarming to see a judicial figure implicated in such criminal activities. Fabbricatore raised concerns regarding what other misconduct might have occurred while the judge was in office.

In March, following the initial arrest, Judge Cano resigned from his position. On Tuesday, the New Mexico Supreme Court issued a ruling that permanently disqualifies him from holding any judicial office in the state. This action marks a significant decision aimed at restoring public trust in the judiciary.

Call for Accountability

Amy Barela, Chairwoman of the Republican Party of New Mexico, voiced the public’s frustration with the situation, stating that the people are tired of a system where those in power do not adhere to the same rules as everyone else. She demands full accountability and transparency regarding Judge Cano’s connection to gang-affiliated criminal activity. The sentiment shared by community members is one of exhaustion and a call for real consequences.

Ongoing Investigation

As the investigation continues, Homeland Security Investigations is leading the case. With significant public interest and concern, authorities are keen to unravel the extent of any misconduct associated with this case.

This report has contributions from Fox News’ Pilar Arias.