Wisconsin Judge Arrested Amid Immigration Enforcement Tensions
Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Hannah Dugan was arrested by the FBI on April 25, 2025, on charges of obstruction and concealing an individual to prevent arrest. The arrest stems from allegations that Judge Dugan assisted Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, an undocumented immigrant with prior deportations and domestic abuse charges, in evading U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents during a scheduled court appearance on April 18. According to an FBI affidavit, upon learning of ICE agents waiting to arrest Flores-Ruiz, Judge Dugan became visibly upset, escorted him and his attorney through a non-public exit, and facilitated his temporary evasion of authorities. Flores-Ruiz was later apprehended following a foot chase. (ft.com)
The arrest has intensified tensions between the judiciary and the Trump administration, which has emphasized strict immigration enforcement since the president’s return to office in January. President Trump has criticized judges for blocking various executive actions, and the case underscores broader concerns over separation of powers and federal authority. (ft.com)
Judge Dugan, a former legal aid advocate and judge since 2016, denies any wrongdoing and pledges to vigorously defend herself. The incident has also raised renewed focus on "sanctuary" jurisdictions, with Milwaukee’s mayor claiming the city is not one, although it limits cooperation with immigration enforcement. (ft.com)
The case has drawn criticism from various quarters, with some arguing that the arrest represents an overreach by federal authorities and a threat to judicial independence. The situation continues to unfold, with further updates expected as the legal proceedings progress. (axios.com)
FBI Arrests Wisconsin Judge Amid Immigration Enforcement Controversy:
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