A Milwaukee judge’s brazen attempt to shield an illegal migrant from federal authorities has landed her in hot water with the Wisconsin Supreme Court. On Tuesday, the court issued an order temporarily suspending Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan from her judicial duties.
The Hill reported that federal authorities arrested Dugan on Friday, charging her with obstructing a proceeding and concealing an individual before their arrest.
The Wisconsin Supreme Court, acting on its motion, deemed the suspension necessary in the public interest. Dugan’s actions have sparked outrage among those who demand strict adherence to immigration laws.
The controversy centers on Dugan’s handling of a case involving Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, a Mexican national in the country illegally. Two weeks ago, Flores-Ruiz was due in Dugan’s courtroom to face three misdemeanor battery charges stemming from a fight with roommates.
His appearance drew the attention of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials, who arrived with a warrant for his arrest.
ICE officials sought to apprehend Flores-Ruiz in Dugan’s courtroom earlier this month. Dugan, however, demanded that ICE consult with Milwaukee County Courts Chief Judge Carl Ashley before proceeding. This delay set the stage for her alleged interference with federal law enforcement.
According to an FBI affidavit, Dugan grew visibly angry during the encounter. She described the situation as “absurd” before abruptly leaving the bench and retreating to her chambers. Flores-Ruiz remained seated in the courtroom gallery at the time.
The affidavit further alleges that Dugan took deliberate steps to undermine ICE’s efforts. She reportedly instructed Flores-Ruiz and his attorneys to exit the courtroom through a side door. This maneuver occurred while ICE officers were discussing the arrest warrant with Chief Judge Ashley.
Dugan’s actions were a direct attempt to thwart President Trump’s immigration agenda, federal authorities claim.
By allegedly helping Flores-Ruiz evade arrest, she undermined the rule of law in her courtroom. Such conduct from a sitting judge is nothing short of a betrayal of public trust.
Attorney General Pam Bondi wasted no time addressing the arrest. “I can confirm that our FBI agents just arrested Hannah Dugan — a county judge in Milwaukee — for allegedly helping an illegal alien avoid an arrest by ICEgov,” Bondi stated. “No one is above the law.”
Dugan’s lawyer, Craig Mastantuono, has pushed back against the charges. He claims Dugan “wholeheartedly regrets and protests her arrest.” Mastantuono further argued that her actions were not in the interest of public safety.
The Wisconsin Supreme Court’s swift response underscores the severity of Dugan’s alleged misconduct. “We conclude, on our motion, that it is in the public interest that she be temporarily relieved of her official duties,” the court declared. This suspension ensures that Dugan cannot wield judicial authority while facing serious federal charges.
The incident has reignited debates over sanctuary policies and judicial overreach. Dugan’s decision to prioritize an illegal migrant over federal law enforcement signals a troubling trend among activist judges. Her suspension serves as a warning to others who might consider similar defiance.
Flores-Ruiz’s case, meanwhile, highlights the broader issue of illegal immigration’s impact on local communities. His misdemeanor charges, while minor, reflect the challenges law enforcement faces when dealing with individuals who flout immigration laws. ICE’s presence in the courtroom was a lawful response to his illegal status.
Dugan’s alleged instructions to Flores-Ruiz and his attorneys reveal a calculated effort to obstruct justice. By directing them to a side exit, she effectively aided his temporary escape from ICE custody. This breach of judicial ethics cannot be overlooked.
The FBI’s involvement in Dugan’s arrest underscores the gravity of her actions. Federal authorities are sending a clear message: judges who abuse their authority to protect illegal migrants will face consequences. The rule of law must prevail, regardless of personal or political beliefs.