Man Arrested 36 Times at Center of Ankle Monitor Legal Fight

Repeat offender Joshua Sanchez-Lopez arrested again for mail theft and suspected fraud lab

Mar. 18, 2026 at 11:38pm

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Joshua Sanchez-Lopez, a 36-year-old repeat offender in Las Vegas, was arrested for the 36th time on Wednesday after police found him allegedly stealing mail from an apartment complex and discovered what appeared to be a fraud lab and narcotics in his residence. This latest arrest comes as the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and Sheriff Kevin McMahill are asking the Nevada Supreme Court to intervene after a judge ordered Sanchez-Lopez released on an ankle monitor, despite his extensive criminal history.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing debate around bail reform and the challenges law enforcement faces in trying to keep repeat, high-risk offenders off the streets. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of ankle monitors and other alternative release conditions for individuals with lengthy criminal histories.

The details

Police responded to reports of a man going through mailboxes at an apartment complex and located Sanchez-Lopez in a vehicle, where they found several pieces of mail that did not belong to him. A search of his residence also uncovered what appeared to be a fraud lab and narcotics. Sanchez-Lopez has faced over 80 charges and has multiple felony convictions, including drug sales, involuntary manslaughter, and being a prohibited person with a firearm.

  • On Wednesday, March 18, 2026, Sanchez-Lopez was arrested for the 36th time.
  • On January 12, Sanchez-Lopez was originally booked on crimes involving possession of a stolen vehicle, leading to the debate on his release.

The players

Joshua Sanchez-Lopez

A 36-year-old repeat offender in Las Vegas who has been arrested 36 times and has faced over 80 charges, including multiple felony convictions.

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department

The law enforcement agency that arrested Sanchez-Lopez and is asking the Nevada Supreme Court to intervene in the case.

Sheriff Kevin McMahill

The sheriff of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department who is supporting the department's request to the Nevada Supreme Court.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage our community and put public safety at risk. This case highlights the need for a balanced approach to criminal justice reform that prioritizes public safety.”

— Sheriff Kevin McMahill

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Thursday whether to allow Sanchez-Lopez to remain in custody or release him on an ankle monitor.

The takeaway

This case underscores the ongoing challenges in balancing criminal justice reform, public safety, and the rights of repeat offenders. It will likely spark further debate around the use of ankle monitors and other alternative release conditions for high-risk individuals with extensive criminal histories.