New Mexico Judge Resigns Amid Shocking Gang Scandal
A high-profile scandal has shaken New Mexico’s judicial system following the abrupt resignation of Doña Ana County Magistrate Judge Joel Cano. The judge stepped down after federal agents arrested Cristhian Ortega-Lopez, an alleged member of the violent Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, who was found living at Cano’s residence.
Ortega-Lopez, an undocumented immigrant who illegally crossed into the U.S., was discovered in possession of firearms and suspected gang-related paraphernalia. He had been employed by Cano’s wife, Nancy, and was provided housing on their property—raising serious questions about the judge’s judgment and conduct.
A search warrant executed at the Cano home uncovered disturbing evidence, including photos of Ortega-Lopez with weapons and gang tattoos directly linked to Tren de Aragua. Prosecutors allege Cano may have knowingly allowed Ortega-Lopez to use his address in an attempt to obtain immigration relief, a move that could constitute a serious ethical violation.
Once a police officer, Cano was expected to uphold the law with integrity. Instead, his involvement in this case has been widely seen as a stunning breach of public trust. The scandal underscores growing concerns over the reach of transnational criminal organizations like Tren de Aragua, especially as they exploit vulnerabilities in the U.S. immigration and judicial systems.
Ortega-Lopez reportedly entered the country during the Biden administration’s border surge and was released due to overcrowding in federal detention facilities. He later relocated to New Mexico, where his ties to organized crime went unnoticed—until now.
As investigations continue, the case is drawing national attention to issues of judicial misconduct, immigration enforcement gaps, and the increasing role of digital evidence in criminal probes. It stands as a sobering reminder of the urgent need for stronger oversight across law enforcement and judicial institutions.