Trial Begins for Wisconsin Judge Accused of Obstructing Immigration Arrest

Mon Dec 15 2025 10:18:01 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan faces federal charges of obstruction and concealing an individual to prevent arrest, related to a Mexican immigrant's case. The trial, which has implications amid ongoing immigration debates, is set to unfold with various witnesses over the coming days.

Hannah Dugan's trial will see prosecutors present their case against her, alleging she helped a Mexican immigrant avoid arrest by U.S. immigration authorities. The proceedings highlight ongoing tensions regarding judicial decisions amidst the current administration's immigration policies. Dugan is accused of advising the immigrant during a court hearing about the waiting agents outside, leading to an altercation when agents were eventually notified.

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Federal prosecutors are set to present their case against Judge Hannah Dugan, a Milwaukee County Circuit Judge, starting on Monday. Dugan is accused of helping a Mexican immigrant evade federal authorities, facing serious charges of obstruction and concealment that could lead to a prison sentence of up to six years if convicted.

The trial promises an extensive examination of Dugan's actions, with the prosecution expecting to call around two dozen witnesses throughout the week. In contrast, Dugan's defense is still organizing their strategy, and the timeline for jury deliberations remains uncertain.

This case emerges as a focal point amidst President Trump's stringent immigration policy campaign, with claims from Republicans branding Dugan as an activist judge. U.S. Representative Tom Tiffany has gone so far as to call for her imprisonment publicly, highlighting the charged political climate surrounding her trial.

Additionally, there are allegations that Dugan and her family received threatening flyers this spring, indicating the heightened tensions over her judicial stance on immigration issues.

According to an FBI affidavit, the case against Dugan centers around a 31-year-old immigrant, Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, who was charged with battery and was due in Dugan's courtroom for a hearing in April. When agents arrived to arrest him, Dugan allegedly intervened, leading him out through back doors as agents waited outside, claiming that she was just adhering to the court’s operational protocols for handling immigration officers.

The unfolding trial illustrates deeper divides on immigration policy in America and reflects the broader implications of judicial conduct when intertwined with federal enforcement actions. The court has set a pace for what promises to be a contentious trial as both sides prepare for battle over perspectives on law, judicial independence, and immigration enforcement.