Wisconsin Judge Pleads Not Guilty to Federal Immigration Obstruction Charges

Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Hannah Dugan pleaded not guilty to federal charges of concealing a person from arrest and obstruction of justice for allegedly helping undocumented immigrant Eduardo Flores-Ruiz evade U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in her courthouse. Prosecutors allege that Dugan escorted Flores-Ruiz and his attorney through a nonpublic exit to avoid ICE agents who were seeking to arrest him for being in the country illegally. Dugan's defense argues that she acted within her judicial capacity and is immune from prosecution, further claiming the federal government violated Wisconsin's sovereignty by intervening in a state courtroom. The case has sparked demonstrations and heightened tensions amid debates over immigration enforcement, with immigrant rights advocates rallying in support of Dugan and critics viewing the prosecution as an overreach. The trial is scheduled for July 21, and if convicted, Dugan could face up to six years in prison and significant fines. The Justice Department's decision to charge a sitting state judge has drawn criticism from Democrats and legal professionals, while Trump administration officials defend the prosecution.