The arrangement appears to have developed after Nancy Cano employed Ortega-Lopez as a handyman and construction worker, eventually offering him housing on their property.

What makes this case particularly alarming is Judge Cano’s background as a former police officer. His transition from law enforcement to the judiciary presumably came with heightened awareness of legal responsibilities and ethical obligations. Yet, according to prosecutors, Cano not only allowed Ortega-Lopez to live on his property but also permitted the immigrant to use his residential address when filing requests for immigration relief—a practice that raises serious ethical concerns.

A Trail of Social Media Evidence

The investigation revealed a disturbing digital footprint that prosecutors have presented as evidence of Ortega-Lopez’s gang affiliations and illegal