Milwaukee Judge Charged with Obstruction of Justice

Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan faces charges from the Federal Court following her actions involving Eduardo Flores Luis, an undocumented individual who was charged with three misdemeanor counts of battery. Dugan, who was suspended from judicial duties by the Wisconsin Supreme Court last month, could risk a prison sentence of up to six years if found guilty of obstructing law enforcement.

According to recent court footage, Dugan allegedly took steps to aid Flores Luis in evading arrest after he appeared in court on April 18. She reportedly confronted members of an ICE Task Force, asserting that a judicial warrant was necessary for them to carry out any arrests.

• Dugan directed task force members to exit the courtroom via public corridors towards the Supreme Court’s office.
• She engaged with ICE agents while they were waiting and presented them with advice on how Flores Luis could shift to a different mode of appearance for future court dates.
• The video reportedly bolsters several claims made in the charges against her.

The footage shows Dugan talking to federal agents in a hallway outside the courtroom, demonstrating a visible confrontation about the nature of their warrants. She insisted that they needed a judicial warrant to proceed, despite them showing an administrative one.

Throughout this ordeal, Dugan allegedly instructed other judges and members of law enforcement regarding how to assist Flores Luis in leaving the courtroom discreetly.

“Hannah Dugan should face a ban from serving as a judge moving forward,” one critic stated, reflecting widespread concerns about her actions.

Other images captured by local media depict Flores Luis fleeing the courtroom as federal agents pursued him. Despite the alleged assistance provided by Dugan, law enforcement eventually apprehended him and he remains in federal custody.

The Department of Homeland Security has commented that Dugan’s interference was an unfounded attempt to thwart an arrest meant to uphold the law.

Judge Dugan has pleaded not guilty to the charges during her federal court appearance. Following the public release of the incident video, Wisconsin Republican Tom Tiffany expressed his dismay, stating that judges who prioritize illegal immigrants over victims should not serve in the courts.

Dugan’s attorney has moved to dismiss the charges, arguing that judicial immunity protects her actions taken in a professional capacity. They cited a Supreme Court ruling indicating that judicial conduct generally affords immunity from prosecution.

In this case, Dugan’s defense maintains that her actions, regardless of how they are perceived, are intrinsic to her role and should not warrant criminal charges.

Though her motion to dismiss has faced challenges, there’s further contention surrounding the judicial oversight Dugan is experiencing, as some believe her case is being influenced by political affiliation and sentiments.