On Monday, April 28, 2025, WisPolitics reported that State Senator Van H. Wanggaard issued a statement regarding the arrest and criminal complaint against Wisconsin Judge Hannah Dugan. In his remarks, Wanggaard emphasized the seriousness of the allegations against the judge, expressing concern over her alleged behavior and its implications for the judicial system.

According to the complaint, Judge Dugan displayed a visibly angry demeanor when confronted by ICE and FBI agents in a public hallway outside her courtroom. Following this incident, she reportedly retreated to her chambers but later emerged with another judge, still exhibiting an angry and confrontational attitude.

The complaint outlines several actions taken by Judge Dugan that are alleged to violate legal and judicial protocols. Notably, she is accused of demanding that an ICE agent leave the public hallway after being informed that the agent was not present for a court appearance. Furthermore, the judge allegedly misrepresented legal requirements by claiming that ICE agents needed a judicial warrant, even after the agent clarified that they were acting under an administrative warrant.

The complaint also said Judge Dugan prevented Eduardo Flores-Ruiz from exiting the courtroom in a normal fashion, instead directing him through a jury door into a non-public area. Additionally, she reportedly adjourned Mr. Flores-Ruiz’s case without notifying the prosecutor or the victims involved.

Wanggaard pointed out that each of these allegations could potentially constitute violations of judicial or legal ethics. He asserted that the cumulative nature of these allegations creates a substantial case against Judge Dugan. He highlighted the importance of adhering to laws and ethical standards within the judiciary, stating that the ongoing protests against Judge Dugan’s arrest do not contest the facts of the case but rather the political context surrounding it.

In his statement, Wanggaard underscored the need for accountability among all elected officials, particularly judges, to uphold the law and their ethical obligations. He expressed concern over what he perceives as rising lawlessness in government, both at the state and federal levels, urging Wisconsinites to demand adherence to legal standards from their public servants.

 

 

Source: WisPolitics