Milwaukee Judge Accused of Aiding Immigration Fugitive

FBI Arrests Milwaukee Judge Amid Immigration Enforcement Clash

By Archyde News staff | Published May 2, 2025

MILWAUKEE (AP) — The FBI arrested Milwaukee County Circuit Court judge Hannah Dugan on Friday, accusing her of obstructing federal immigration authorities. The arrest has heightened tensions between the trump management and local officials regarding the President’s immigration policies.

Dugan is accused of helping a man, later identified as Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, evade Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. According to court documents, she allegedly escorted Flores-Ruiz and his lawyer out of her courtroom through a jury door last week after learning that ICE agents were seeking his arrest. Flores-Ruiz was apprehended outside the courthouse after a brief foot chase.

The arrest underscores the escalating conflict between the federal government and state and local entities, some of which have been accused by the Trump administration of hindering federal immigration enforcement efforts. This action occurs amidst broader disputes between the administration and the judiciary concerning executive actions on deportations and related immigration matters.

Did you know? Sanctuary cities and states, which limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, exist throughout the U.S. These jurisdictions often argue that their policies foster trust between immigrant communities and local law enforcement.

Political Reactions

Wisconsin governor Tony Evers, a Democrat, condemned the arrest, stating that the trump administration has repeatedly utilized “risky rhetoric to attack and attempt to undermine our judiciary at every level.”

Evers added, “I have deep respect for the rule of law, our nation’s judiciary, the importance of judges making decisions impartially without fear or favor, and the efforts of law enforcement to hold people accountable if they commit a crime. I will continue to put my faith in our justice system as this situation plays out in the court of law.”

U.S.Senator Tammy Baldwin, also a Democrat representing Wisconsin, described the arrest as a “gravely serious and drastic move” that “threatens to breach” the separation of power between the executive and judicial branches. Baldwin emphasized the importance of the rule of law and democratic values.

“Make no mistake, we do not have kings in this country and we are a Democracy governed by laws that everyone must abide by,” Baldwin said in an emailed statement. “By relentlessly attacking the judicial system, flouting court orders, and arresting a sitting judge, this President is putting those basic Democratic values that Wisconsinites hold dear on the line.”

The arrest and Charges

Dugan was taken into custody by the FBI on Friday morning on the courthouse grounds, according to U.S. Marshals Service spokesperson Brady McCarron.She appeared briefly in federal court in Milwaukee later that day before being released. The charges against her include “concealing an individual to prevent his discovery and arrest” and obstructing or impeding a proceeding.

Craig Mastantuono, Dugan’s attorney, stated that “Judge Dugan wholeheartedly regrets and protests her arrest. it was not made in the interest of public safety.” He declined further comment after her court appearance.

Court documents indicate that Dugan was alerted to the presence of ICE agents by her clerk, who had been informed by an attorney that agents were in the hallway.

The FBI affidavit describes Dugan as “visibly angry” upon learning about the ICE agents’ presence,reportedly calling the situation “absurd” before retreating to her chambers. The affidavit also alleges that she and another judge approached the arrest team inside the courthouse, exhibiting what witnesses described as a “confrontational, angry demeanor.”

After a discussion with the officers about the warrant for Flores-Ruiz, Dugan allegedly demanded that the arrest team speak with the chief judge and escorted them away from the courtroom, the affidavit states.

Investigators claim that after directing the arrest team to the chief judge’s office,Dugan returned to the courtroom and was heard saying words to the effect of “wait,come with me” before ushering Flores-Ruiz and his lawyer through a jury door into a non-public area of the courthouse. The affidavit notes that this action was unusual, as the jury door is typically used onyl by deputies, juries, court staff, and in-custody defendants being escorted by deputies.

Pro tip: Understanding the layout of a courthouse can be crucial in assessing the validity of claims related to unauthorized access. Court layouts are typically a matter of public record.

Prior DOJ Directives

The Justice Department signaled a crackdown on local officials who impede federal immigration efforts. In January, the department ordered prosecutors to investigate for potential criminal charges any state and local officials who obstruct or impede federal functions. A memo cited a conspiracy offense and a law prohibiting the harboring of individuals in the country illegally as potential avenues for prosecution.

Background on Judge Dugan

Dugan was elected in 2016 to the county court Branch 31. She has also served in the court’s probate and civil divisions. Before her election, she practiced at Legal Action of Wisconsin and the Legal Aid Society. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1981 with a bachelor of arts degree and earned her Juris Doctorate in 1987 from the same institution.

Similar Cases and Counterarguments

This case echoes a similar situation during the first Trump administration involving Massachusetts Judge Shelley Joseph, who was accused of helping a man evade an ICE agent. While that prosecution sparked outrage and was viewed by many as politically motivated, the charges against Joseph were eventually dropped in 2022 under the Biden administration after she agreed to refer herself to a state agency for misconduct inquiry.

A potential counterargument to the criticism of Dugan’s arrest is that all individuals, including judges, are subject to the law. Supporters of the administration’s stance may argue that obstructing federal law enforcement, nonetheless of the individual’s position, undermines the integrity of the legal system and national security. The Attorney General, pam Bondi, highlighted the potential danger to law enforcement and citizens during the chase, reinforcing this view.

Case	Judge	Allegation	Outcome
Milwaukee (2025)	Hannah Dugan	Aiding evasion of ICE	Pending
Massachusetts (2019)	Shelley Joseph	Aiding evasion of ICE	Charges Dropped

Comparison of recent cases involving judges and immigration enforcement.

FAQ

Why is this case considered controversial?

The arrest of a sitting judge by federal authorities is seen by some as an overreach of executive power and a threat to the independence of the judiciary. Critics argue it could set a precedent for politically motivated prosecutions.

What are the potential legal consequences for Judge Dugan?

If convicted, Judge Dugan could face imprisonment and fines, as well as potential disbarment and removal from her judicial position.

How does this case impact the debate over immigration enforcement?

The case highlights the deep divisions in the U.S. regarding immigration policy and the extent to which local officials should cooperate with federal immigration enforcement efforts. It also raises questions about the balance of power between the federal government and state and local authorities.

What is the Justice Department’s stance on obstruction of immigration enforcement?

The Justice Department has taken a firm stance against any obstruction of federal immigration enforcement, directing prosecutors to pursue criminal charges against state and local officials who interfere with these efforts.

What are sanctuary cities and how do they relate to this case?

Sanctuary cities are jurisdictions that have policies in place to limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities. while Milwaukee is not officially a sanctuary city, the case reflects the broader tensions between federal immigration policy and local attitudes towards immigration enforcement.

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Interview: Legal Scholar Analyzes Fallout From Judge Dugan’s Arrest in Milwaukee – Archyde News

introduction

archyde News is honored to present an exclusive interview with Dr. Eleanor Vance, a Professor of Constitutional Law at the prestigious Madison School of Law. Dr. Vance, a respected voice in legal circles, offers insightful commentary on the recent arrest of Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Hannah dugan, dissecting the legal and political ramifications of this highly sensitive case.

The core issue: judge Dugan and Immigration Enforcement

Archyde News: Dr. Vance, thank you for joining us. Can you provide a concise overview of the charges against judge Dugan and the central legal issues at play in this unfolding situation?

Dr. Vance: Certainly.Judge Dugan is accused of obstructing federal immigration authorities by allegedly helping an individual, Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, evade ICE.The key legal questions revolve around the extent to wich a judge can or should interfere with federal law enforcement, the application of federal statutes regarding obstruction, and the potential implications surrounding separation of powers between the judiciary and the executive branches.

Separation of Powers: A Delicate Balance

Archyde News: This case has drawn strong responses from political figures. How significant is the potential impact on the established separation of powers?

Dr. Vance: The separation of powers is sacrosanct to our democracy. The arrest of a sitting judge by the federal government certainly raises concerns. While judicial independence is vital, the government also has the right and the duty to uphold federal law.It comes down to whether the judge’s actions were a violation of the law or a part of their judicial duties, which could possibly create a dangerous precedent for politically motivated actions if handled poorly.

Context of Sanctuary Cities and Federal Authority

Archyde News: Milwaukee is not officially a “sanctuary city,” but how does the broader national debate over sanctuary policies and federal immigration enforcement frame this case?

Dr. Vance: The backdrop of this case is crucial. regardless of Milwaukee’s designation as a sanctuary city, the underlying conflict between federal immigration efforts and local attitudes inevitably influences how this case is perceived. The Justice Department’s stance of aggressively targeting officials who impede federal efforts directly clashes with local policies that may seek to protect undocumented immigrants and the debate highlights those divisions nationwide.

Potential Legal Consequences and Outcomes

Archyde News: Looking at the potential legal landscape, what are the potential penalties Judge Dugan could face if convicted, and what is the likelihood of different outcomes?

Dr. Vance: If convicted, Judge Dugan could face imprisonment and fines, and also disbarment and removal from her judicial position.The outcomes will depend on the evidence presented, the interpretation of the relevant federal statutes, and the political climate. There is also potential for appeals within the federal court system. The case is complex and may very well reach the U.S. Supreme Court.

The Broader Implications

Archyde News: Beyond the courtroom, what are the implications of this case for the judiciary, public trust, and other similar cases?

Dr. Vance: The repercussions could be widespread. A conviction could chill the actions of other judges unsure of their legal standing if they are involved in similar situations. Public confidence in the impartiality of the judiciary could be affected by the public perception of any political bias involved. This case will also inevitably influence the handling of similar situations and inform strategies going forward.

Closing Thoughts

Archyde News: Dr. Vance, thank you for your insights. what final thoughts would you share with our readers about this situation?

Dr. Vance: I would emphasize the importance of the rule of law and the need for all parties, including federal agencies, the judiciary, and local officials, to act with openness and integrity.This case poses significant challenges and requires careful consideration of every outcome. What are your thoughts on the balance of power between local jurisdictions and the federal government when enforcing federal laws? Share your outlook in the comments below.