Nationwide — Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Hannah Dugan was convicted of felony obstruction after a courthouse encounter with federal immigration agents. The jury found she interfered with their work but cleared her of a separate charge involving concealing an undocumented man.
The verdict followed a weeklong federal trial in Milwaukee. Jurors concluded that Dugan obstructed federal officers but did not hide the undocumented immigrant from arrest. Deliberations began Thursday and ended with a split decision.
According to ABC News, the case centered on events from April 18 at the Milwaukee County Circuit Court. Federal agents were at the courthouse to arrest Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, who was scheduled to appear before Dugan on a battery charge.
Prosecutors said Dugan spoke with the agents and directed them to the chief judge’s office. She then allowed Flores-Ruiz and his lawyer to leave through a non-public exit, an action prosecutors argued was intended to delay or prevent his arrest. Flores-Ruiz was caught shortly afterward outside the courthouse following a brief foot chase.
During closing arguments, prosecutors highlighted Dugan’s courthouse actions and asked jurors to hold her accountable. The defense argued the case relied on assumptions and questioned the accuracy of audio recordings used as evidence.
Transcripts and recordings presented at trial reportedly showed Dugan acknowledging the risks of using the side exit. Dugan did not testify, while the defense called several witnesses, including former Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett, who spoke on her character.
After the defense rested, Judge Lynn Adelman denied a motion to dismiss the case. Dugan now faces up to six years in prison for the obstruction conviction.
Following her arrest, the Wisconsin Supreme Court suspended Dugan from her judicial duties, citing the public interest. Flores-Ruiz, a Mexican national, later pleaded guilty to unlawful reentry, served his sentence, and was deported, according to federal records.