On Wednesday, July 16, 2025, the Washington Examiner reported that Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan contested federal obstruction charges in a court filing, arguing that the Justice Department is targeting her for performing her judicial duties. The charges stem from allegations that Dugan assisted an undocumented immigrant, Eduardo Flores-Ruz, in evading federal law enforcement at her courthouse.

In her filing, Dugan opposed a recommendation by U.S. Magistrate Judge Nancy Joseph, who advised that the case should proceed. Dugan’s legal team argued that allowing the prosecution to move forward could set a precedent where state judges face federal charges for routine judicial actions. They emphasized that Dugan was simply doing her job, albeit in a manner that differed from the preferences of some federal agents.

Judge Joseph, in a prior filing, rejected Dugan’s claim of judicial immunity, stating that actions taken in an official capacity do not shield a judge from criminal prosecution if those actions violate the law. Her recommendation is non-binding, and U.S. District Judge Lynn Adelman will ultimately decide whether to dismiss the case.

Dugan’s filing highlighted the potential chilling effect on the judiciary if the case proceeds, warning that judges could face arrest and prosecution for carrying out their duties. She cited longstanding legal traditions supporting immunity for official judicial acts, arguing that such protections are critical to preserving judicial independence.

The charges against Dugan relate to an incident involving Flores-Ruz, who appeared in her courtroom. Federal agents arrived at the Milwaukee County Courthouse to arrest him, but Dugan allegedly allowed Flores-Ruz and his attorney to exit through a back door. Flores-Ruz was apprehended shortly after leaving the building, and Dugan was arrested approximately one week later in April 2025.

The federal indictment includes two obstruction charges, which carry a potential penalty of up to six years in prison and a $350,000 fine if Dugan is convicted. She has pleaded not guilty.

Following her arrest, the Wisconsin Supreme Court suspended Dugan from her judicial duties, though she continues to receive her $175,000 annual salary. In response, Republican lawmakers in Wisconsin recently proposed legislation to withhold pay for suspended judges.

The Justice Department has until later in July 2025 to respond to Judge Joseph’s recommendation. Judge Adelman’s ruling on Dugan’s motion to dismiss will follow, and the trial, originally scheduled to begin the week after July 16, has been postponed indefinitely pending the outcome of the motion.

 

 

Source: Washington Examiner