Ex-New Mexico judge arrested in case involving man suspected of being a Venezuelan gang member

A former New Mexico judge has been arrested on a federal charge for allegedly destroying a phone belonging to a tenant who is accused of keeping guns at the property and suspected of being a member of a Venezuelan criminal gang. Federal authorities say former Doña Ana County Magistrate Judge Jose Luis “Joel” Cano told investigators that he believed photos or videos on the phone would reflect negatively on the tenant and smashed the device with a hammer. Federal agents believe the phone contained photos that were also posted on social media showing the tenant holding guns. The Associated Press sent an email seeking comment from Cano.