FBI Arrests Wisconsin Judge Hannah Dugan on Obstruction Charges in Immigration Case
Hannah Dugan, a 65-year-old Milwaukee County Circuit Court judge, was arrested by the FBI and charged with obstruction of proceedings before a department or agency of the United States. The charges stem from allegations that she deliberately helped an undocumented immigrant evade arrest during a federal immigration enforcement operation at her courthouse.
What Happened?
Federal agents were at the Milwaukee courthouse to arrest Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, a Mexican immigrant who had been deported in 2013 and was facing local domestic violence charges. According to court documents, Judge Dugan became visibly angry upon learning about the planned arrest and allegedly misled federal agents away from Flores-Ruiz, allowing him to avoid immediate capture.
Witnesses reported that Dugan escorted Flores-Ruiz and his attorney through a nonpublic area of the courthouse, effectively concealing him from immigration officers waiting nearby. Flores-Ruiz was later apprehended after a foot chase outside the building.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Judge Dugan faces two federal charges: obstruction of a proceeding before a federal agency and concealing an individual to prevent his discovery and arrest. She appeared in federal court in Milwaukee but did not enter a plea and was released on her own recognizance.
If convicted, Dugan could face up to six years in prison. Her defense attorney has stated she intends to vigorously contest the charges, emphasizing her long career dedicated to upholding the law and due process.
Reactions and Context
The arrest marks a significant escalation in federal efforts to enforce immigration laws, especially targeting officials accused of interfering with federal immigration operations. FBI Director Kash Patel criticized Dugan for putting public safety at risk by obstructing the arrest.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi underscored that no one, not even a judge, is above the law and condemned actions that allow criminal defendants to evade justice.
What’s Next?
The case against Judge Hannah Dugan is ongoing, with further court dates expected. The arrest has sparked debate about the role of local judiciary in immigration enforcement and the limits of judicial discretion when federal law enforcement is involved.
This arrest highlights the increasing federal scrutiny on local officials amid heightened immigration enforcement efforts. Stay tuned for updates as this high-profile case develops.