New Mexico Judge Resigns After Gang Member Found Living on His Property

 

New Mexico Judge Resigns After Gang Member Found Living on His Property

A judge from New Mexico has suddenly quit his job after federal agents arrested a suspected gang member living right on his property.

Judge Jose “Joel” Cano had served as a magistrate judge in Doña Ana County since 2011. But in early 2025, federal agents showed up at his home in Las Cruces, New Mexico, and arrested a 23-year-old man named Cristhian Ortega-Lopez. What shocked many people was that this man wasn’t just anyone—he’s suspected of being part of a dangerous gang from Venezuela known as Tren de Aragua.

Even more surprising, Ortega-Lopez was living in a small guest house (called a “casita”) behind Judge Cano’s main home.

How Did He Get There?

Ortega-Lopez first met the judge’s wife, Nancy, while doing some handyman work. Over time, he ended up living in the casita behind their home. It’s not fully clear how close Ortega-Lopez was to the family, but photos and social media posts show him hanging out with both the judge and his wife. In some of these pictures, he is even handing firearms to them.

A Dangerous Situation

When federal agents searched the property, they found Ortega-Lopez in possession of several firearms. As someone who entered the U.S. illegally, it is against the law for him to own or carry guns. Investigators also found that he had previously been caught crossing the border in Texas by climbing over a fence in December 2023. However, due to overcrowding in detention centers, he was released just a few days later.

The arrest was triggered by an anonymous tip. Investigators found videos online of Ortega-Lopez shooting at a range and holding multiple guns, which helped them build a case.

He now faces serious charges for having guns as an illegal alien and could go to prison for up to 15 years if convicted. While he waits for his trial, Ortega-Lopez is being kept in jail.

Judge Cano Steps Down

Just weeks after the arrest, Judge Cano turned in a resignation letter. He didn’t say exactly why he was stepping down, but the timing left little doubt that it was connected to the raid on his home.

His last day on the bench was in March 2025. In the letter, he said that working with his fellow judges and court staff had been rewarding, and he was thankful for the experience. However, many are now wondering if there could be further legal trouble ahead for him too.

Federal documents show that prosecutors are looking into whether Judge Cano knew Ortega-Lopez had guns and if he played any role in helping him stay in the country. There is also concern about photos and videos showing the judge and his wife handling one of Ortega-Lopez’s rifles.

What is Tren de Aragua?

The gang Ortega-Lopez is suspected of belonging to is called Tren de Aragua. It’s based in Venezuela but has been spreading into other countries, including the United States. Members are known for violent crimes, drug trafficking, and more. U.S. officials have been warning about their presence growing along the southern border.

Being connected to this group raises major red flags. That’s why federal agents acted quickly when they received a tip that Ortega-Lopez was in Las Cruces and armed.

Why This Matters

This story has stirred up a lot of debate. Some people see it as another example of why stricter immigration laws are needed. Others are focused on how someone suspected of gang activity could end up so close to a judge—and even have what looks like a friendly relationship with him.

It’s also raised questions about how seriously some judges take issues related to illegal immigration and public safety. Was this a case of bad judgment, or something more serious?

What Happens Next?

Ortega-Lopez remains in custody as he awaits his trial. If convicted, he could face a long prison sentence. As for Judge Cano, while he has not been charged with any crime as of now, federal investigations often take time. More details may come out in the weeks ahead.

This case is a reminder of how complex and serious the issue of illegal immigration can be—especially when it connects to gang activity and public officials.

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