On Tuesday, November 18, 2025, KOAT reported that a federal jury trial has been scheduled for Nancy and Joel Cano, a former New Mexico judge, following their arrest by ICE in April. The couple faces charges related to allegedly harboring Cristhian Ortega-Lopez, a suspected member of the Venezuelan crime organization, Tren de Aragua.
The trial is slated to commence on Monday, December 15. Court documents indicate that Nancy Cano initially connected with Ortega-Lopez after he was hired to install a glass door at their residence. Subsequently, she offered him accommodation in their casita, located on their property, beginning in April 2024.
Ortega-Lopez was later apprehended in late February and charged with being an illegal alien in possession of firearms.
Joel Cano served as a Doña Ana County Magistrate judge. However, he resigned from his position following his arrest.
Joel Cano faces charges of tampering with evidence, while Nancy Cano is charged with conspiracy to tamper with evidence. Both individuals were released on a bond of $10,000 each pending the commencement of their trial.
The case has drawn significant attention due to the involvement of a former judge and the alleged connection to an international crime organization. The trial is expected to shed light on the circumstances surrounding Ortega-Lopez’s stay at the Cano residence and the subsequent charges brought against the couple.
Source: KOAT
