Federal Lawsuit Against Wisconsin Judge Advances

A U.S. Magistrate has indicated that a lawsuit can progress against a Wisconsin judge who is accused of aiding undocumented immigrants in evading arrests. This follows reports from earlier in May that Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan was allegedly involved in helping individuals escape U.S. Customs and Enforcement (ICE) officials.

In a two-page indictment, Dugan faces accusations of obstructing federal agencies, particularly in the case of Eduardo Flores Luis, an undocumented immigrant. Details from the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel highlight that Dugan’s defense declared during her May 15 hearing that she would “enter the petition.”

Dugan has pleaded not guilty to federal charges, asserting that she is protected from prosecution for actions taken in her official capacity within the court environment, according to the Washington Post.

In a non-binding recommendation issued on Monday, Judge Nancy Joseph suggested dismissing the charges against Dugan. She stated that even if Dugan’s actions were performed in her official role, this does not shield her from criminal prosecution if those actions violated the law. The complexities surrounding whether Dugan broke the law or merely met her judicial duties present challenges that cannot be settled in a dismissal motion.

Dugan’s attorney, Stephen Biscupic, expressed disappointment regarding the ruling. He mentioned, “We are disappointed by the Magistrate’s non-binding recommendation and will appeal. This is just one step in what we anticipate will be a lengthy process to uphold the independence and integrity of the court.”