Federal Case Moves Forward Against Wisconsin Judge Accused of Helping an Immigration Fugitive

A federal judge has dismissed an attempt to dismiss charges against a Milwaukee County Judge accused of aiding an individual in avoiding immigration enforcement. The judge, Hannah Dugan, was arrested in April and indicted in May for allegedly escorting a man out of her courtroom to evade detention by immigration agents.

She argued in her motion to dismiss that her actions were protected under judicial immunity and that federal prosecution violated Wisconsin’s sovereignty and separation of powers. However, a U.S. District Judge rejected these arguments, confirming the case can proceed. The judge emphasized that while judges have immunity from prosecution for judicial acts, this immunity is not absolute, especially concerning allegations of aiding in a crime.

Prosecutors claim Dugan assisted Eduardo Flores-Ruiz and his lawyer in escaping through a back door after learning that immigration agents were present seeking to arrest Flores-Ruiz for illegal presence in the country. Flores-Ruiz was later detained outside the courthouse following a brief chase.

Defense attorneys expressed disappointment with the ruling, asserting that Dugan acted in her official capacity and that the case should be dismissed. The prosecution’s spokesperson declined to comment on the ruling.

The case has garnered public attention, with supporters staging demonstrations outside the courthouse in Dugan’s favor. Body camera footage released last week shows Dugan denying knowledge of Flores-Ruiz’s illegal status and stating she did not give him special treatment. She claimed to police that media reports accusing her of hiding Flores-Ruiz were false and that she had done nothing wrong.

The judge’s decision may be appealed to the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals, with a hearing scheduled for September 3. Dugan faces charges of concealing an individual to prevent their arrest and obstruction, which could result in up to six years in prison and a fine if convicted.