MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Federal prosecutors commenced their case against Judge Hannah Dugan on Monday. The Milwaukee County Circuit Judge is facing accusations of helping a Mexican immigrant, Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, evade federal authorities charged with battery.
The trial, which includes opening statements and testimonies from about two dozen witnesses, is expected to last until Thursday. Dugan is charged with obstruction and concealing an individual from arrest, facing up to six years in prison if convicted.
This prosecution adds a layer to the ongoing immigration debate catalyzed by the Trump administration, with Republican Rep. Tom Tiffany labeling her an activist judge and calling for her imprisonment. Critics argue the administration aims to use Dugan as a scapegoat to discourage judicial opposition to its policies.
In a concerning incident, Dugan reported finding intimidating flyers at her home, hinting at mounting pressure against her. The affidavit from the FBI describes how agents attempted to arrest Flores-Ruiz at Dugan’s courtroom, only to be redirected by Dugan, allowing Flores-Ruiz to escape momentarily through a back exit.
As political implications unfold, the state Supreme Court suspended Dugan following her indictment. She has argued for immunity, claiming her actions were within judicial purview, a defense that was denied by U.S. District Judge Lynn Adelman, who emphasized that judges are not immune from criminal prosecution.
Dugan's case not only challenges her professional standing but also sparks a larger debate over immigration enforcement protocols within the judicial system.
