A judge from Wisconsin facing allegations of aiding undocumented immigrants entered a plea of “not guilty” in a federal court on Thursday. Milwaukee Judge Hannah Dugan’s preliminary plea was made as she navigated the legal landscape amid protests that supported her stance against the Trump administration’s immigration policies.
The 66-year-old judge is accused of obstructing justice by allegedly helping Mexican citizen Eduardo Flores Luis evade federal authorities. This accusation surfaced alongside claims that Dugan assisted Flores Luis in fleeing her courtroom through a concealed exit to avoid arrest by ICE agents who were present at the time.
During her appearance, it was noted that Dugan has been stripped of her judicial salary following her arrest. A recent motion to dismiss was turned down, and a trial date was established for July 21, where she is set to contest two felony charges, which could lead to a significant prison sentence if found guilty.
The charges have ignited backlash from Democratic groups, leading to demonstrations outside the courthouse, where slogans supporting Dugan were chanted. Her attorney called for a swift trial, but the hearing on Thursday was brief, lasting only around five minutes.
Dugan, while denying any misconduct, invoked the notion of judicial immunity connected to her official duties. As it stands, if convicted, she faces up to six years in federal prison and potential financial penalties.
