Milwaukee Judge Faces Federal Trial Over Alleged Immigration Interference
On May 15, 2025, Judge Hannah Dugan of Milwaukee County entered the Milwaukee Federal Courthouse, facing charges of allegedly assisting Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, an undocumented immigrant, in avoiding federal arrest during a court appearance in April.
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Trial Commences Amidst Controversy
The jury selection has concluded, and the federal trial for Judge Dugan is set to begin. She stands accused of obstructing justice by allegedly helping Flores-Ruiz evade immigration authorities at the courthouse last April.
Following a grand jury indictment, Dugan faces charges of obstructing a proceeding, a felony, and concealing an individual to prevent arrest, a misdemeanor. She has pleaded not guilty and could face up to six years in prison if convicted.
Prosecution’s Allegations
According to the prosecution, ICE agents intended to detain Flores-Ruiz, a Mexican national, for unlawful presence in the U.S. They planned to arrest him during his court appearance before Judge Dugan on domestic assault charges.
Prosecutors allege that Dugan misled agents by stating a judicial warrant was necessary and directed them to the chief judge’s office. During this time, she reportedly allowed Flores-Ruiz to exit through a private door, advising his attorney to attend future hearings via Zoom.
Eventually, Flores-Ruiz and his lawyer were spotted in a public hallway, leading to a chase and his subsequent arrest and deportation.
Defense Asserts Innocence
Judge Dugan and her legal team have refrained from commenting publicly. However, her defense team previously stated, “Judge Dugan maintains her innocence and anticipates being exonerated in court.”
Her attorneys argue that courthouse policies on immigration enforcement were unclear, and Dugan was adhering to draft protocols requiring ICE agents to be referred to a supervisor.
Wisconsin criminal defense attorney Tony Cotton, not involved in the case, suggests that if Dugan was merely following protocol to minimize courtroom confrontation, it could influence the perception of her intent.
Legal Experts Weigh In
Laurie Levenson, a former federal prosecutor and current law professor, emphasizes that the case hinges on Dugan’s intentions. “The core issue is whether she was attempting to conceal someone or simply managing her courtroom,” Levenson explains.
Shifting Political Landscape
Historically, courthouses were considered off-limits for federal immigration enforcement. However, during the Trump administration, this norm shifted, leading to increased courthouse arrests.
Top Trump administration officials have supported the prosecution, with the Department of Homeland Security labeling Dugan an “activist judge” on social media.
High-Profile Legal Representation
Judge Dugan’s legal team includes prominent defense attorneys and former Republican solicitor general Paul Clement, indicating the case’s significance and potential for appeal.
This case is reminiscent of a 2018 incident in Massachusetts, where a judge faced similar charges for allegedly aiding an immigrant’s escape from ICE. The Biden administration later dropped the charges, referring the matter to a judicial conduct board.
