A Wisconsin judge faces federal charges for allegedly helping an undocumented immigrant evade ICE agents, igniting a national debate over judicial ethics and immigration enforcement.
At a Glance
- Judge Hannah Dugan arrested for aiding immigrant’s ICE escape
- Wisconsin Supreme Court suspends Dugan during proceedings
- Political protests erupt in Milwaukee
- Legal community divided over ethics and enforcement
- Arraignment set for May 15, 2025
Judge’s Arrest and Suspension
Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan was arrested by the FBI on April 25 after she allegedly helped undocumented immigrant Eduardo Flores-Ruiz avoid arrest by ICE agents. Prosecutors say Dugan used her judicial authority to redirect Flores-Ruiz and his attorney through non-public courthouse exits to avoid apprehension. ICE agents later arrested Flores-Ruiz after a foot chase outside the building, according to USA Today.
In response, the Wisconsin Supreme Court issued a temporary suspension order, emphasizing it was an administrative—not disciplinary—measure to preserve public trust during legal proceedings. The court stated, “It is in the public interest that she be temporarily relieved of her official duties.”
Watch FOX 6 Milwaukee’s coverage at Wisconsin Judge Suspended After Allegedly Helping ICE Target Evade Capture.
Legal Defense and Political Blowback
Dugan’s legal team, led by attorney Craig Mastantuono, denounced the arrest, calling it “not made in the interest of public safety.” The judge, who continues to receive her salary during suspension, maintains her innocence. Her legal counsel told The Hill they were “disappointed that the Court acted in unilateral fashion.”
The case has polarized public opinion. Protests erupted in Milwaukee following the suspension, with activists accusing federal authorities of overreach. Critics of Dugan, including FBI Director Kash Patel, claimed her actions “created increased danger to the public,” as reported by the New York Post.
Immigration, Ethics, and Precedent
Observers have drawn comparisons to the 2019 case of Massachusetts Judge Shelley Joseph, who was indicted on similar charges but later cleared. Legal scholars say Dugan’s case could reshape expectations of how state judges interact with federal immigration enforcement.
Political leaders are split. Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers criticized the framing of the case, suggesting it was being used to fuel anti-immigrant narratives. Others argue Dugan violated ethical standards by interfering with federal operations.
What Comes Next
Dugan’s arraignment is set for May 15, and a reserve judge has been appointed to cover her caseload. According to USA Today, the state’s high court will revisit her suspension following resolution of the criminal charges.
Whether her actions are ultimately judged as civil disobedience or judicial misconduct, the case is certain to shape how courts nationwide interpret the boundaries of ethics, law, and immigration enforcement.
