(LibertySociety.com) – A startling case emerges as New Mexico Judge Joel Cano faces arrest for connections with a notorious gang member.
At a Glance
- Former Judge Joel Cano housed Venezuelan gang members on his property.
- Judge Cano resigned in March, permanently barring him from judicial service in New Mexico.
- His arrest followed a Homeland Security raid uncovering multiple undocumented individuals.
- No formal charges against Cano yet, but allegations of misconduct are under investigation.
Judge’s Property Raided
Judge Joel Cano, a former magistrate in Doña Ana County, is at the center of a controversy after federal agents discovered gang members residing illegally on his property. One individual, Cristhian Ortega-Lopez, identified as part of Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua gang, was found during the raid, which led to the confiscation of firearms. Cano and his wife, Nancy, were arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement on charges of tampering with evidence.
The investigation into Cano began in February with a Homeland Security raid that resulted in the detainment of three Venezuelan nationals linked to the gang. Ortega-Lopez had been living in the guesthouse on the Cano property, allegedly working as a handyman. Both Judge Cano and his wife deny knowledge of the gang affiliations and insist that they were misled by immigration paperwork stating the men were not subject to removal.
Social Media Evidence
Social media posts further complicate matters by showing Ortega-Lopez posing with firearms, sometimes alongside Cano. While Cano has claimed ignorance regarding the men’s criminal ties, the Judicial Standards Commission is investigating potential misconduct. Despite the severity of the allegations, Cano currently faces no criminal charges. His resignation took effect in March, in the midst of growing scrutiny.
“The very first time I ever heard that the boys could possibly have any association with Tren de Aragua was when I was informed of that by agents on the day of the raid.” – Joel Cano.
Court documents allege that Cano may have provided firearms to the gang members, a charge he fervently denies. The situation has prompted a broader examination of the infiltration of criminal networks into otherwise unsuspecting households within the U.S. The couple’s daughter’s home was also raided, leading to the recovery of weapons some believe belonged to Ortega-Lopez.
Broader Implications and Resignation
This predicament casts a shadow over the integrity of legal figures tasked with upholding the law, raising concerns about judicial oversight and accountability. As the story unfolds, it becomes intertwined with broader national discussions about immigration policy and border security. Under President Trump’s administration, the Homeland Security Department has detained over 150,000 aliens, including more than 600 members of the gang in question.
“Under President Trump, over 150,000 aliens have been arrested, including more than 600 members of the Tren de Aragua gang, according to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.”
As federal agents continue to investigate, the community and nation watch closely for the legal proceedings to unfold. The implications of this case may ripple through the judicial system, prompting further evaluations of potential breaches in ethical and legal responsibilities.
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