Federal Obstruction Case Against Judge Dugan Hits Delay, Her Career in Limbo

Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Hannah Dugan is once again in the spotlight after her high-profile federal case—accusing her of helping an undocumented immigrant evade ICE—was delayed this week, prolonging a legal cloud she says is “hanging over her head.” The delay leaves her professional fate uncertain.

What’s Going On?

In late April, Judge Dugan was arrested in her courtroom and indicted on two federal charges: obstruction of justice and concealing an individual from arrest. Prosecutors claim she ushered Eduardo Flores‑Ruiz, an undocumented Mexican national, out a back courtroom door to avoid ICE agents.

Milwaukee’s state Supreme Court suspended Dugan days later, citing public trust concerns. Even so, she remains free on bond and continues to receive backlash, both political and personal.

Case Delayed, Fate Uncertain

This week, Judge Dugan’s requested motions to dismiss the case were not ruled on, pushing back her expected plea hearing. She and her legal team have argued she acted within her judicial authority and deserve immunity under recent Supreme Court precedent . Support is surfacing, with over 130 retired judges backing her claim.

But with an indictment still active, her suspension stays in place—and her job remains on precarious ground. She’s described the unresolved legal battle as “hanging over her”, though she remains optimistic she’ll be vindicated .

Why It Matters

• Separation of powers: Prosecutors say judges must not block federal law enforcement—even in courthouses. Critics argue this intervention chills judicial independence and safe courtroom access.

• Legal precedent: The case mirrors a dismissed 2019 Massachusetts prosecution where a judge helped a defendant exit covertly—raising questions about how much protection courtroom actors hold.

• Political flashpoint: The arrest intensified tensions between federal immigration policy and local judiciary autonomy, with lawmakers and activists lining up on each side.

What’s Next

Judge Dugan’s motion is now awaiting judicial review, and a new hearing date will be set. If her plea hearing is delayed much longer, the Wisconsin Supreme Court might reassess her suspension. She maintains her innocence and asserts that her actions were legally sound.