Former New Mexico Judge and Wife Arrested for Alleged Evidence Tampering in Immigration Case
Former Doña Ana County Magistrate Judge Joel Cano and his wife, Nancy Cano, were arrested on April 24, 2025, following a federal investigation into alleged evidence tampering. Authorities claim the couple assisted Cristhian Ortega-Lopez, a man suspected of being a member of Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua gang, in destroying a cellphone believed to contain incriminating evidence. (apnews.com)
Ortega-Lopez had been residing in the Canos’ Las Cruces home, initially hired by Nancy Cano for home repairs and later accommodated in their guesthouse. Investigations revealed evidence linking Ortega-Lopez to the Tren de Aragua gang, including gang-related clothing, tattoos, and communications. Federal authorities also discovered firearms at the residence, some of which were allegedly owned by the Canos’ daughter, April Cano. (fox5atlanta.com)
In response to these developments, the New Mexico Supreme Court permanently barred Joel Cano from holding any judicial office in the state. The case underscores the escalating tensions between federal immigration enforcement and local authorities, highlighting the complexities of federal-state relations in law enforcement. (apnews.com)
Former New Mexico Judge and Wife Arrested in Evidence Tampering Case:
- Ex-New Mexico judge arrested in case involving man suspected of being a Venezuelan gang member
- US charges Milwaukee judge with obstructing immigration arrest in Trump crackdown
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