Milwaukee Judge Resigns After Federal Conviction
Milwaukee Circuit Court Judge Hannah Dugan has stepped down following her conviction last month for obstructing federal agents during an attempt to apprehend an illegal immigrant.
In her resignation letter to Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers, dated Saturday, Dugan expressed concern that her ongoing legal issues threaten the autonomy of the judiciary. She indicated her intention to continue pursuing her case, stating, “This unprecedented federal lawsuit, while still ongoing, presents numerous challenges that could undermine judicial independence. I fight for myself and our independent judiciary. But I believe the people of Wisconsin deserve to have a judge in Milwaukee County Branch 31 as the year begins, rather than letting partisan disputes dictate the court’s future.”
Her resignation is set to take effect immediately.
A December 18 ruling by a jury found Dugan guilty of hindering a federal immigration official who was trying to carry out a warrant during a court session back in April. Prosecutors alleged that she assisted the individual, identified as Flores-Ruiz, by guiding him and his attorney out of the courtroom to evade Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents present to arrest him.
Dugan has maintained her innocence, having previously pleaded not guilty and been acquitted of a misdemeanor charge. Her legal team recently filed a motion showing their intent to seek a new trial.
If convicted on the felony obstruction charge, she could face a sentence of up to five years. However, a date for sentencing has not yet been established by U.S. District Judge Lynn Adelman. Dugan was suspended by the Wisconsin Supreme Court back in April but continued to earn an annual salary of around $175,000 while awaiting trial.
In light of Dugan’s conviction, state Republican leaders have indicated their plans to initiate impeachment proceedings unless she resigns immediately. Both Wisconsin Assembly Speaker Robin Vos and Assembly Majority Leader Tyler August contend that the state constitution bars individuals convicted of felonies from holding positions of trust unless they are pardoned.
Vos remarked, “The citizens of Wisconsin deserve to know that our judiciary remains impartial. Judge Hannah Dugan fails to uphold these standards, and her time in service is over.”
Following the verdict, Dugan’s legal representatives expressed their readiness to continue fighting for her exoneration. They stated, “While we’re disappointed by the outcome today, it highlights the prosecution’s inability to achieve convictions on both charges, raising questions about the integrity of this case against Judge Dugan.”
“We are preparing for a potentially lengthy legal battle, and substantial resources will be necessary. Public support for Judge Dugan’s defense is crucial as we move forward,” her attorneys added.
