Wisconsin judge pleads not guilty

By: D. D. Reese

Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan has pleaded not guilty to federal charges alleging she assisted an undocumented immigrant in evading arrest by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents at the Milwaukee County Courthouse. The incident, which occurred on April 18, 2025, has ignited a national debate over judicial authority and federal immigration enforcement.

Allegations and Legal Proceedings

According to federal prosecutors, Judge Dugan learned of ICE agents' presence in the courthouse seeking to detain Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, who was appearing before her on misdemeanor domestic abuse charges. Flores-Ruiz had previously been deported in 2013 and had reentered the U.S. unlawfully. Prosecutors allege that Dugan directed Flores-Ruiz and his attorney to exit through a restricted back door, thereby facilitating his evasion of federal agents. Flores-Ruiz was later apprehended outside the courthouse following a foot chase.

On April 25, 2025, Judge Dugan was arrested by FBI agents and subsequently indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of obstructing justice and concealing a person to prevent arrest. If convicted, she faces up to six years in federal prison. Her trial is scheduled to commence on July 21, 2025.

Defense and Judicial Immunity Claim

Judge Dugan's legal team has filed a motion to dismiss the charges, asserting that her actions were within the scope of her official judicial duties and thus protected by judicial immunity. They argue that directing courtroom procedures and managing the movement of individuals within the courthouse fall under her judicial responsibilities. The defense also contends that the prosecution infringes upon state sovereignty and the independence of the judiciary.

Suspension and Public Response
In response to the indictment, the Wisconsin Supreme Court suspended Judge Dugan from her duties to maintain public confidence in the judiciary. A reserve judge has been appointed to handle her caseload during the suspension.

The case has elicited strong reactions from both supporters and critics. Protesters have gathered outside the federal courthouse in Milwaukee, expressing support for Judge Dugan and denouncing the federal government's actions as overreach. Democratic lawmakers, including U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin, have criticized the prosecution, viewing it as an attack on judicial independence. Conversely, Republican figures, such as former Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker, have called for Dugan's impeachment, asserting that judges must be held accountable for actions that impede federal law enforcement.

Background on Judge Dugan

Appointed to the Milwaukee County Circuit Court in 2016, Judge Hannah Dugan has a longstanding history of public service and legal advocacy. She has previously served as president of the Milwaukee Bar Association and held leadership roles in various legal aid organizations. Her career has been marked by a commitment to civil rights and community engagement.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the case continues to spotlight the tensions between state judicial authority and federal immigration enforcement, raising questions about the boundaries of judicial discretion and the role of the judiciary in matters intersecting with federal policy.