Milwaukee Judge Hannah Dugan Arrested for Obstructing Immigration Arrest

Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan was arrested by federal authorities on charges of obstruction and concealing an individual after allegedly helping an undocumented immigrant, Eduardo Flores Ruiz, evade ICE agents in her courtroom. FBI Director Kash Patel initially announced the arrest on social media, claiming Dugan intentionally misdirected federal agents, which allowed Flores Ruiz—who faced misdemeanor battery charges—to temporarily avoid apprehension. Reports state Dugan directed Flores Ruiz and his lawyer out a side door to escape ICE agents waiting with a federal warrant. Flores Ruiz was later arrested and remains in federal custody. The arrest has heightened tensions between the judiciary and the Trump administration, which had previously signaled an intent to pursue criminal charges against local officials impeding federal immigration enforcement. Dugan’s attorney stated she regrets and protests the arrest, arguing it was not made in the interest of public safety.