Milwaukee judge found guilty of felony obstruction in helping undocumented man evade arrest

A Wisconsin judge, Hannah Dugan, has been found guilty of felony obstruction for allegedly concealing an undocumented man to prevent his arrest by immigration authorities. The incident took place at a courthouse in April, where Dugan was accused of obstructing official Department of Homeland Security removal proceedings and knowingly hiding the man from immigration authorities.

Dugan was acquitted of the charge of concealing an undocumented immigrant but was convicted of obstructing federal agents. The jury deliberated the case and found her guilty on Thursday afternoon. Dugan, who pleaded not guilty, could face up to six years in prison for the charges.

According to federal prosecutors, Dugan encountered federal agents at the Milwaukee County Circuit Court who were there to arrest Eduardo Flores-Ruiz on immigration violations. Flores-Ruiz was appearing in Dugan’s courtroom on a battery charge. Prosecutors alleged that Dugan directed the agents to the chief judge’s office and then helped Flores-Ruiz evade arrest by sending him out a non-public door. Flores-Ruiz was later captured outside the court building after a brief foot chase.

During the trial, prosecutors presented transcripts and audio recordings that allegedly showed Dugan admitting to her actions. The defense argued that the case was unjust and based on assumptions, questioning the validity of the evidence presented.

Despite the defense’s efforts, Judge Lynn Adelman denied their request to dismiss the case after the defense rested. Dugan, who did not testify during the trial, has been suspended from her duties by the Wisconsin Supreme Court in the wake of her arrest.

Flores-Ruiz, a Mexican national, was charged with unlawful reentry into the U.S. He pleaded guilty to the charge and was sentenced to time served. DHS confirmed that he had been deported last month.

The case has sparked controversy and raised questions about the role of judges in immigration enforcement. Dugan’s conviction serves as a reminder of the legal and ethical responsibilities that come with holding a position of authority within the judicial system.