New Mexico Judge Resigns After Alleged Member of Venezuelan Gang Found Living in His Home

A big scandal shook New Mexico’s judiciary. Dona Ana County Magistrate Judge Joel Cano resigned after Cristhian Ortega-Lopez, who is suspected to be a member of the infamous Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, was found living in the home of the judge.

Ortega-Lopez, who crossed illegally over the southern border, was employed by Judge Cano’s wife, Nancy, and had a roof over his head on their ranch, authorities stated. They allege he possessed weapons and gang affiliation.

A search warrant at Cano’s residence produced alarming evidence, including photos of Ortega-Lopez with guns and gang tattoos. Prosecutors also claim Cano might have allowed Ortega-Lopez to use his address on an immigration petition, a serious ethical issue. Cano was a retired police officer, sworn to uphold the law—but in this instance, that legal requirement is a far cry from what transpired.

The case brings attention to heightened concerns regarding the means by which transnational gangs like Tren de Aragua are making their way into the U.S. Ortega-Lopez had initially been released after entering the country due to detention center overcrowding, proceeding all the way to New Mexico.

This scandal carries implications about judicial integrity, border security, and the way that criminal gangs exploit loopholes in the immigration system. With social media as part of the inquiry, the event is a sad reminder that the judiciary and immigration enforcement need greater scrutiny.

The investigation continues, and there is likely to be more to come.