MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Plea negotiations with a Wisconsin judge accused of aiding an immigrant in evading federal agents are underway as her trial approaches, according to interim U.S. Attorney Brad Schimel. Dugan's trial is set for December 15, and if convicted, she could face a maximum sentence of six years in prison.
Judge Hannah Dugan’s attorneys have stated she is innocent, claiming their client acted within her judicial authority. Dugan reportedly facilitated the exit of 31-year-old Eduardo Flores-Ruiz from her courtroom to evade federal agents. The agents had intended to apprehend Flores-Ruiz, who was illegally residing in the U.S., for a scheduled appearance related to a state battery case.
Schimel indicated that discussions about a plea agreement are common in such cases, aimed at finding a resolution that makes sense for all parties involved. However, he noted that Dugan's attorneys have not indicated a willingness to accept a plea deal yet.
The case has drawn significant attention amid the ongoing national debate over immigration policy, particularly regarding the Trump administration's aggressive stance against unauthorized immigration. This has put Dugan in a spotlight, and her indictment has emerged as part of the broader clash between federal authorities and local jurisdictions opposing harsh immigration tactics.
Moreover, recent actions by the Department of Homeland Security have aimed at vilifying Dugan publicly. As the legal battle continues, former U.S. attorney John Vaudreuil remarked on the unusual nature of Schimel's public comments regarding plea negotiations, as such discussions are traditionally confidential.
As the trial date looms, Dugan and her legal team remain resolute in their argument that her actions do not constitute wrongdoing, setting the stage for a pivotal legal showdown in Wisconsin’s courtroom.
Judge Hannah Dugan’s attorneys have stated she is innocent, claiming their client acted within her judicial authority. Dugan reportedly facilitated the exit of 31-year-old Eduardo Flores-Ruiz from her courtroom to evade federal agents. The agents had intended to apprehend Flores-Ruiz, who was illegally residing in the U.S., for a scheduled appearance related to a state battery case.
Schimel indicated that discussions about a plea agreement are common in such cases, aimed at finding a resolution that makes sense for all parties involved. However, he noted that Dugan's attorneys have not indicated a willingness to accept a plea deal yet.
The case has drawn significant attention amid the ongoing national debate over immigration policy, particularly regarding the Trump administration's aggressive stance against unauthorized immigration. This has put Dugan in a spotlight, and her indictment has emerged as part of the broader clash between federal authorities and local jurisdictions opposing harsh immigration tactics.
Moreover, recent actions by the Department of Homeland Security have aimed at vilifying Dugan publicly. As the legal battle continues, former U.S. attorney John Vaudreuil remarked on the unusual nature of Schimel's public comments regarding plea negotiations, as such discussions are traditionally confidential.
As the trial date looms, Dugan and her legal team remain resolute in their argument that her actions do not constitute wrongdoing, setting the stage for a pivotal legal showdown in Wisconsin’s courtroom.
