Former judge and wife detained over alleged gang ties
A former judge and his wife were detained following a search at their home in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The search was conducted in connection with allegations that a suspected member of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua was residing on their property.
On Thursday, the home of former district judge Joel Cano and his wife Nancy Cano was searched based on a warrant issued by immigration services. Both were also detained due to the likelihood of criminal involvement.
The former judge faces charges of tampering with evidence, while his wife is charged with conspiracy to tamper with evidence.
Gang member in the judge's house?
According to investigators, 23-year-old Cristhian Ortega-Lopez, an immigrant from Venezuela who entered the U.S. illegally, was living in the guest house behind the Cano residence. Authorities claim that Ortega-Lopez is affiliated with the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua.
The man was reportedly hired by Nancy Cano to do repair work around the house. The couple then allowed him to stay in the guest house.
During the search, four firearms were found, allegedly belonging to the judge's daughter, April Cano. Ortega-Lopez admitted to firing them. He faces a sentence of up to 15 years in prison.
Judge Cano resigned from his position in March, and on Tuesday, the New Mexico Supreme Court issued a ruling permanently barring him from holding any judicial positions in the state.
