Former Judge Receives Lenient Sentence for Aiding Illegal Immigrant
A former judge is facing a minimal consequence after assisting illegal immigrants in evading immigration authorities. She has stated her intention to challenge the ruling.
Hannah Dugan resigned after a testimony from Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, an undocumented immigrant from Mexico, was presented in Milwaukee County Circuit Court. Flores-Ruiz had been convicted of obstructing justice for fleeing from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents with Dugan’s help.
“I’ve been portrayed as both the villain and the hero. I’m neither. I’m just a public servant trying to do my job. I won’t let that moment on April 18, 2025, define my career,” she expressed.
Flores-Ruiz was previously arrested on charges including strangulation and domestic violence, ultimately pleading guilty to assault and illegal re-entry into the U.S.
In August 2025, Dugan faced charges for obstruction of justice and concealing an arrest. She was convicted of a felony obstruction but acquitted of a misdemeanor charge.
Recently, U.S. District Judge Lynn Adelman ordered Dugan to pay a $5,000 fine, avoiding any prison time.
“It seems that a person, generally good, acted out of frustration with this country’s immigration policies and made a poor choice,” said Adelman.
Prosecutors had sought a sentence of 15 to 21 months behind bars.
Despite the judge’s sentence being termed relatively lenient, Dugan remained resolute. “What I did that day aligned with the community’s concerns during the court session. My judicial actions weren’t malicious or for personal gain,” she stated.
Dugan mentioned her aspirations to return to public service after being “forced” to retire, adding, “I resigned in January to allow voters to place a judge in my seat. I’m neither the culprit nor the hero, but a public servant trying to fulfill my duties.”
Her legal representation hinted at plans to appeal the sentence.
Adelman dismissed the argument from Dugan’s lawyers claiming “judicial immunity” from prosecution due to her former role as a judge.
Surveillance footage from the courthouse confirmed Dugan confronting federal officials and guiding them away before assisting Flores-Ruiz in his escape through a side exit.
Ultimately, despite Dugan’s efforts, Flores-Ruiz was caught and deported in November 2025.
