Federal agents have arrested a former judge from New Mexico and his wife after they were accused of hiding a suspected gang member in their home. Jose “Joel” Cano, who previously served as a magistrate judge in Dona Ana County, and his wife, Nancy, were taken into custody by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Las Cruces.
The couple, both 67 years old, faces charges of tampering with evidence. They are currently being held at the Dona Ana County Jail and are awaiting their court appearance. Their arrest is part of an investigation by Homeland Security into their connection with Cristhian Ortega-Lopez, a 23-year-old man linked to Tren de Aragua, a Venezuelan gang designated as a foreign terrorist organization.
Ortega-Lopez was arrested at the Cano home back in February. He had entered the United States illegally near Eagle Pass, Texas, and spent three days in Border Patrol custody before being released due to overcrowding. After his release, he reportedly met Nancy Cano in El Paso, where he was working as a handyman. She offered him a place to stay in a small house behind their residence.
Ortega-Lopez faces charges of being an unlawful alien in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Court documents show him in possession of guns. Meanwhile, Cano has denied knowing about Ortega-Lopez’s alleged ties to the gang, stating that he only learned about it on the day of the raid.
In response to the arrests, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem highlighted the agency’s commitment to combating illegal immigration and gang activity. She emphasized that those who break the law will face consequences.
Following the allegations, Cano resigned from his position as a judge and has been banned by the New Mexico Supreme Court from holding any judicial office in the future. The court made it clear that he cannot run for or hold any judicial position again.
The situation has raised concerns about the connections between local officials and criminal organizations. Investigators reportedly have evidence, including text messages and voicemails, that suggest a deeper link between the Cano couple and Tren de Aragua.