On Monday, December 22, 2025, FOX6 News reported that Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan remains employed and is still receiving her salary, despite a jury finding her guilty of obstructing federal agents. This situation has sparked public interest and legal debate, as she has been suspended from her judicial duties since April.
Judge Dugan’s name remains on the door of her former courtroom, but other judges are currently covering her caseload. The suspension was initiated by the Wisconsin Supreme Court following the federal charges against her. However, the continuation of her salary has raised questions, given the guilty verdict.
The legal complexities stem from the Wisconsin Constitution and state law, which stipulate that a person convicted of a felony is ineligible to hold office and loses their position upon conviction and sentencing. While a jury has convicted Judge Dugan, Federal Judge Lynn Adelman has not yet formally entered the judgment or imposed a sentence. The Wisconsin Supreme Court is deferring any decisions until the federal court finalizes the judgment of conviction.
Legal expert Jonathan LaVoy explained that Judge Adelman has not yet accepted the verdict, as the defense team is contesting the outcome. Judge Adelman has granted the defense until January 30, 2026, to file a motion to overrule the jury’s decision. The prosecution will then have until February 20, 2026, to respond, with the defense having a final opportunity to reply by March 6.
Former U.S. Attorney James Santelle noted that judges rarely overturn jury verdicts, especially after extensive deliberation. LaVoy concurred, stating that it is highly unusual for a judge to supersede a jury’s decision and does not anticipate Judge Adelman will do so in this case.
The ongoing legal proceedings have delayed sentencing. Santelle speculated that Judge Adelman might impose a term of supervised release or a fine, but believes it is unlikely that Judge Dugan will face imprisonment. LaVoy characterized Judge Adelman as a compassionate judge known for being more lenient in federal sentencing.
Looking ahead, Wisconsin Assembly Speaker Robin Vos has stated that if Judge Dugan does not resign, the Assembly will initiate impeachment proceedings. The last time a judge was impeached in Wisconsin was in 1853, when Judge Levi Hubbell was impeached by the Assembly but acquitted by the Senate.
Source: FOX6 News
