by Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan has been indicted in federal court following accusations that she obstructed immigration officials and helped an undocumented immigrant evade arrest last month. ‘
Dugan faces charges of obstruction and concealing an individual from arrest in connection with an incident at the courthouse in April 2025.
What Happened:
On April 18, 2025, Judge Hannah Dugan became involved in an incident where she allegedly helped an undocumented immigrant evade federal immigration agents stationed at the courthouse.
The federal agents had been dispatched to arrest the individual, but Dugan is accused of actively interfering with their operation.
Key Details:
The charges against Dugan include obstruction and concealing an individual from arrest. According to an affidavit, Dugan reacted strongly when she learned of the agents’ presence in the courthouse, calling the situation “absurd” before leaving the bench.
Witnesses reported that Dugan confronted the agents in a public hallway, demanded they leave, and questioned their warrants for arrest.
Afterward, she allegedly prevented the individual and his attorney from exiting through the courthouse’s main doors, instead escorting them through a jury door. Though agents briefly pursued the individual, he was eventually arrested after a foot chase.
Reactions or Statements:
Dugan’s attorney, Craig Mastantuono, issued a statement asserting her innocence. “Judge Dugan looks forward to being vindicated in court,” Mastantuono said.
During her first court appearance on April 25, Dugan expressed regret for her arrest, stating it was not made in the interest of public safety.
Investigation or What’s Next:
Following the indictment, Dugan is scheduled to appear in court again this Thursday. As the legal process unfolds, the Wisconsin Supreme Court temporarily relieved Dugan of her duties as a circuit court judge to ensure the integrity of the case.
FAQs:
1. What charges is Judge Hannah Dugan facing?
Judge Dugan has been indicted on charges of obstruction and concealing an individual from arrest.
2. When did the incident occur?
The incident involving Judge Dugan and federal immigration agents took place on April 18, 2025.
3. What was the outcome of the arrest attempt?
Despite Dugan’s interference, the individual was eventually arrested after a brief foot chase by immigration agents.
4. What did Dugan say about the charges?
Dugan has denied the charges and looks forward to proving her innocence in court.
5. What action has the Wisconsin Supreme Court taken?
The Wisconsin Supreme Court has temporarily suspended Judge Dugan’s judicial duties while the case is being processed.
Summary / Final Takeaway:
Judge Hannah Dugan’s indictment marks a significant development in her ongoing legal battle after allegations that she obstructed immigration agents. The charges highlight the complex intersection of law enforcement and judicial authority, with Dugan asserting her innocence and awaiting her day in court.
