Judge Joel Cano is a former magistrate judge in Doña Ana County, New Mexico, who served on the bench from 2011 until his resignation in March 2025. His tenure ended amid a federal investigation that led to his arrest and subsequent permanent disbarment from judicial office.
Joel Cano had been serving as a magistrate judge in Doña Ana County since 2011. In March 2025, he resigned from his position, citing personal reasons. However, his resignation came shortly after federal agents arrested a Venezuelan migrant named Cristhian Ortega-Lopez at Cano’s residence. Ortega-Lopez, who had entered the U.S. illegally, was suspected of being affiliated with the Tren de Aragua gang and was found living in a guesthouse on Cano’s property.
Following the raid, both Joel Cano and his wife, Nancy Cano, were arrested. Joel Cano was charged with tampering with evidence after admitting to destroying a phone belonging to Ortega-Lopez, believing it contained incriminating evidence. Nancy Cano faced charges of conspiracy to tamper with evidence for allegedly attempting to delete one of Ortega-Lopez’s social media accounts.
In April 2025, the New Mexico Supreme Court permanently barred Joel Cano from holding any judicial office in the state, including officiating weddings. This decision followed an investigation into his actions and the discovery of evidence suggesting his involvement with individuals linked to criminal activities.
Early Life and Background
Age, Nationality, and Ethnicity
Judge Joel Cano’s age is not widely publicized, but he was born in the 1970s in the United States, making him in his late 40s to early 50s by the time of his arrest. As a native of New Mexico, Cano’s nationality is American. While specific details regarding his ethnicity have not been fully disclosed, it is widely believed that he is of Hispanic descent, given the demographic makeup of the region where he served.
Family and Personal Life
Joel Cano’s family life came under scrutiny during the legal proceedings that followed his resignation. He was married to Nancy Cano, who was also involved in the controversial case that led to their arrests. Cano’s personal life, although private in many respects, has been deeply affected by the events that transpired in 2025. His wife, Nancy, was charged with conspiracy to tamper with evidence, alongside her husband, highlighting their joint involvement in the scandal.
Education and Early Career
Joel Cano’s educational background is rooted in his pursuit of law. He earned his law degree from a reputable institution, although specific details about the law school he attended have not been made public. Cano’s passion for law led him to a career in the judicial system, where he would eventually serve as a magistrate judge in Doña Ana County. His early career was marked by a strong commitment to the judicial process and a reputation for handling cases with diligence and fairness.
Professional Career
Appointment as Magistrate Judge
In 2011, Joel Cano was appointed as a magistrate judge for Doña Ana County, a position that would see him overseeing a variety of legal matters, including criminal cases, civil disputes, and family law issues. As a magistrate judge, Cano’s role was critical in ensuring that legal proceedings ran smoothly and fairly within his jurisdiction. He gained recognition for his competence and commitment to his role in the New Mexico judicial system.
Major Cases and Contributions
Throughout his career, Judge Cano handled numerous high-profile cases. His position allowed him to preside over cases involving local criminal activities, immigration issues, and disputes in civil and family matters. Cano’s decisions were often seen as balanced, and he earned a reputation as a judge who did not shy away from difficult or controversial cases. However, none of these cases would match the level of scrutiny he would face in 2025.
Resignation and Arrest
Resignation from Judicial Office
In March 2025, amidst a federal investigation, Judge Joel Cano resigned from his position as magistrate judge. The resignation came under the weight of allegations that were linked to criminal activity at his residence, involving an individual with ties to the notorious Tren de Aragua gang. His resignation was sudden, but it was clear that the legal challenges and accusations were too much for him to continue in office.
Arrest and Charges
Shortly after his resignation, federal agents arrested Joel Cano and his wife, Nancy Cano. The arrest stemmed from the discovery that the Cano family had allowed a Venezuelan migrant named Cristhian Ortega-Lopez to stay at their home. Ortega-Lopez was believed to be associated with the Tren de Aragua gang, which is known for its violent activities. Investigators found firearms, gang-related tattoos, and other incriminating evidence linking Ortega-Lopez to criminal enterprises.
The Canos were accused of tampering with evidence. Joel Cano admitted to destroying Ortega-Lopez’s phone, believing it contained vital information that could incriminate him. Nancy Cano was charged with conspiracy to tamper with evidence for attempting to delete Ortega-Lopez’s social media accounts. These actions brought severe legal consequences for both individuals, culminating in criminal charges.
Disbarment and Legal Fallout
Permanent Disbarment
In April 2025, the New Mexico Supreme Court made a historic decision to permanently disbar Judge Joel Cano from holding any judicial office. This included a prohibition from officiating weddings and holding any position within the state’s judicial system. The court’s decision came after a thorough investigation revealed the extent of Cano’s involvement with individuals connected to organized criminal activities. His disbarment effectively ended his legal career and underscored the seriousness of the allegations against him.
Broader Legal and Ethical Implications
The disbarment of Joel Cano had broader implications for the integrity of the judicial system in New Mexico. It raised questions about the relationship between local law enforcement and the judiciary, as well as concerns about the vetting process for individuals in positions of judicial authority. The case also brought attention to the challenges posed by criminal gangs and the potential infiltration of organized crime into local government offices.
Net Worth and Personal Finances
While precise figures regarding Joel Cano’s net worth remain unknown, it is assumed that, as a magistrate judge, he earned a modest salary typical for his position in New Mexico. The circumstances surrounding his resignation and arrest, combined with the legal battles that followed, likely impacted his financial standing. Cano’s net worth has been overshadowed by the public scandal and the subsequent legal fees associated with his defense.
Wife and Family Life
Joel Cano’s wife, Nancy Cano, played a pivotal role in the events leading to his downfall. She was charged alongside her husband for attempting to conceal evidence related to the case involving Ortega-Lopez. The couple’s legal troubles have been heavily publicized, and Nancy’s involvement in the conspiracy charges placed a strain on their family dynamics.
Despite the controversies, the Canos were reportedly a close-knit family, though their personal life became increasingly scrutinized during the federal investigation.
Conclusion
Judge Joel Cano’s career, once marked by respect and dedication, came to a tragic and abrupt end in 2025. His involvement in criminal activities, linked to organized gang members, tarnished his reputation and led to legal consequences that shattered his career. Cano’s case serves as a reminder of the complexities and vulnerabilities within the judicial system and highlights the far-reaching consequences of unethical conduct in positions of power.
FAQs about Judge Joel Cano
Who is Judge Joel Cano?
Judge Joel Cano was a magistrate judge in Doña Ana County, New Mexico, who resigned in 2025 amid a federal investigation that led to his arrest and permanent disbarment.
Why did Judge Joel Cano resign from his position?
He resigned after a federal investigation revealed his involvement with individuals connected to organized criminal activities, including a suspect tied to the Tren de Aragua gang.
What charges were brought against Judge Cano?
Judge Cano was charged with tampering with evidence after he destroyed a phone belonging to Cristhian Ortega-Lopez, a suspect linked to criminal activity.
Was Judge Cano’s wife also arrested?
Yes, Judge Cano’s wife, Nancy Cano, was arrested and charged with conspiracy to tamper with evidence.
What gang was involved in the case with Judge Cano?
The case involved the Tren de Aragua gang, a notorious criminal organization with ties to violence and illegal activities.
What happened to Judge Cano’s career after his resignation?
After his resignation, Judge Cano was permanently disbarred from holding any judicial office in New Mexico.
Where did Judge Cano live during the investigation?
Judge Cano lived in Doña Ana County, New Mexico, where the investigation and subsequent arrests took place.
