Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan, who was arrested on charges of obstruction, is accused of attempting to help undocumented immigrant Eduardo Flores-Ruiz evade arrest during a court hearing. FBI director Kash Patel stated that Dugan misdirected U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents who were present to arrest Flores-Ruiz, leading to heightened risks for public safety. After a heated argument with immigration agents in her courtroom, Dugan allegedly escorted Flores-Ruiz out a side door while agents waited outside. Although Flores-Ruiz managed to escape initially, he was apprehended shortly thereafter.
Dugan’s attorney expressed her regret following the arrest, claiming it was not in the interest of public safety. She now faces charges that could bring a maximum of six years imprisonment. A preliminary court hearing is set for May 15 after Dugan was released on her own recognizance.
The incident stems from a warrant issued for Flores-Ruiz, who is facing three misdemeanor battery charges. The immigration enforcement situation escalated when Dugan became angered upon discovering the agents in the courthouse, described by the FBI as an “absurd” situation. Dugan's actions have drawn mixed reactions from political leaders, with some condemning the arrest while others support the need for cooperation with law enforcement. Dugan, elected in 2016 and re-elected in 2022, is the latest in a series of judges across the nation to face legal repercussions for actions related to immigration enforcement, highlighting ongoing tensions within the judicial system.
