Wisconsin Judge Pleads Not Guilty in Immigration Case
A judge in Wisconsin, accused of aiding undocumented immigrants, entered a not guilty plea in federal court on Thursday. This comes amid significant public support for Judge Hannah Dugan, who has shown resistance to stringent immigration policies from the previous administration.
The 66-year-old judge faced allegations of obstructing justice and concealing Mexican national Eduardo Flores Luis from federal authorities. Protesters gathered outside the courthouse, expressing their support for Dugan.
Reports indicate that Dugan encouraged Flores Luis, who is facing charges related to domestic violence, to evade immigration agents present in the courtroom. The federal court has filed formal charges against her, while Flores Luis remains in custody at an immigration detention facility.
Despite the serious accusations, Dugan’s legal team has argued for a reduction of the charges, citing her entitlement to judicial immunity for actions performed in her official capacity. During a brief hearing that lasted only five minutes, her attorney also requested an expedited trial.
The situation has ignited outrage among Democrats, with demonstrators outside the courthouse chanting “Free Judge Dugan” and criticizing the extensive deportations under the Trump administration’s policies.
The trial for Judge Dugan is scheduled for July 21. If convicted, she could face up to six years in federal prison and a fine of $350,000.
