Las Cruces, NM – A former New Mexico judge and his wife are facing federal charges after allegedly sheltering an illegal immigrant linked to the violent Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua (TdA), CWEB News reports. The arrest underscores growing concerns about transnational gang activity and immigration enforcement in the U.S.
Arrest Details and Background
On Thursday, federal agents arrested ex-Dona Ana County Magistrate Judge Joel Cano, 58, and his wife Nancy Cano, 54, at their Las Cruces home. The couple is accused of tampering with evidence and harboring Cristhian Ortega-Lopez, an alleged TdA member arrested in February during a raid at their property. Agents also recovered four firearms from the residence of their daughter, April Cano.
According to court documents, Ortega-Lopez, a Venezuelan national, entered the U.S. illegally near Eagle Pass, Texas, on December 15, 2023. He was briefly detained but released days later due to overcrowding at a Border Patrol facility. The Canos allegedly hired him for home repairs before offering him lodging in their guesthouse.
Gang Ties and Evidence
Investigators uncovered damning evidence tying Ortega-Lopez to TdA, including gang-affiliated clothing, tattoos, and social media posts flaunting firearms. Text and voice messages further corroborated his involvement. Ortega-Lopez now faces up to 15 years in prison for firearm possession by an illegal alien under 18 U.S.C. §922(g)(5).
Homeland Security’s Crackdown
U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem emphasized the severity of the case in a press briefing, stating, “If you are here illegally and break the law, we will hunt you down, arrest you, and lock you up. That’s a promise.” She revealed that DHS has apprehended over 150,000 undocumented immigrants this year, including 600+ tied to TdA, a gang notorious for extortion, human trafficking, and violence across Latin America.
Legal Repercussions and Public Outcry
The Canos’ arrest has sparked debates about judicial accountability and border security. Joel Cano resigned abruptly last month following Ortega-Lopez’s initial arrest, raising questions about potential obstruction of justice. Legal experts suggest the case could set a precedent for prosecuting individuals who aid criminal organizations.
Tren de Aragua: A Growing Threat
TdA, originating in Venezuela’s prisons, has expanded its operations into the U.S., exploiting porous borders and overwhelmed immigration systems. Law enforcement agencies warn that the gang’s presence poses significant risks to public safety.
CWEB News will continue to monitor this developing story. For real-time updates, follow us on social media.
