Milwaukee’s judicial system faces a stunning shakeup as a local judge is accused of defying federal immigration authorities. On Tuesday, the Wisconsin Supreme Court issued a suspension order against Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan, prohibiting her from performing judicial duties. The decision follows her arrest by the FBI last Friday at the county courthouse.
According to AP News, the court’s action stems from allegations that Dugan aided a man in evading U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, leading to her facing two federal charges. The charges include concealing an individual to prevent arrest and obstructing a legal proceeding. The Supreme Court, acting independently, cited the need to maintain public trust in Wisconsin’s judiciary during her criminal case.
Dugan’s legal troubles began last week when ICE agents arrived at the courthouse seeking Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, a man who illegally reentered the U.S. after a 2013 deportation. Court documents reveal Dugan’s clerk was tipped off about the agents’ presence by an attorney. Dugan, reportedly furious, called the situation “absurd” before retreating to her chambers.
After learning of the ICE agents, Dugan and another judge confronted the arrest team in the courthouse. Witnesses described their demeanor as angry and confrontational, escalating tensions. Dugan demanded that the agents discuss the warrant with the chief judge, leading them away from her courtroom.
Returning to her courtroom, Dugan took an unusual step. She allegedly instructed Flores-Ruiz and his lawyer to follow her through a jury door, a restricted exit typically reserved for deputies, juries, and court staff. This move, investigators claim, was an attempt to help Flores-Ruiz avoid ICE agents.
The plan failed when Flores-Ruiz was apprehended outside the courthouse after a brief foot chase. The FBI affidavit highlights the irregularity of Dugan’s actions, noting that defense attorneys and non-custodial defendants never use the jury door. Her decision to escort Flores-Ruiz through this route has fueled the charges against her.
The Wisconsin Supreme Court’s two-page order emphasized the urgency of suspending Dugan to preserve judicial integrity. The court, controlled by a 4-3 liberal majority, acted without external prompting. The suspension took effect immediately and will remain in place until further notice.
A reserve judge began covering Dugan’s duties on Monday, ensuring the court’s operations continue uninterrupted. The state court spokesperson confirmed this arrangement is indefinite. Meanwhile, Dugan’s legal team expressed disappointment over the court’s unilateral decision.
Dugan’s attorneys, including prominent conservative lawyer Paul Clement and former U.S. Attorney Steve Biskupic, issued a statement defending her innocence. They criticized the court’s swift action and vowed to fight the charges. The team remains confident Dugan will be vindicated in court.
Dugan’s arrest has sparked a firestorm among Democrats, who claim the Trump administration is targeting the judiciary. Protesters gathered outside the FBI’s Milwaukee office on Saturday, decrying what they see as an overreach of federal power. The controversy has intensified debates over immigration enforcement and judicial independence.
The FBI affidavit paints a vivid picture of Dugan’s reaction to the ICE agents’ presence. Her visible anger and subsequent actions suggest a deliberate attempt to interfere with federal law enforcement. These details have raised questions about her impartiality as a judge.
Dugan’s decision to lead Flores-Ruiz through a nonpublic area of the courthouse is central to the case against her. Investigators argue this was a clear violation of protocol, designed to thwart ICE’s efforts. The affidavit underscores the rarity of such actions in judicial settings.
Dugan is scheduled to appear for her arraignment on May 15, where she will formally respond to the charges. Her legal team, led by experienced attorneys, is preparing a robust defense. The outcome of the case could have significant implications for her judicial career.
The Wisconsin Supreme Court’s suspension reflects a broader concern about public confidence in the judiciary. By acting decisively, the court aims to distance itself from Dugan’s alleged misconduct. The move signals a commitment to upholding the rule of law amid political tensions.
As the case unfolds, it will likely fuel further debate over immigration enforcement and the role of judges in such matters. Dugan’s actions, whether driven by ideology or misjudgment, have placed her at the center of a national controversy. The coming months will determine whether she can reclaim her position or face lasting consequences.
