BREAKING: Milwaukee Judge Hannah Dugan Arrested by FBI for Obstructing ICE Operation

Judge's Arrest Shocks Milwaukee Courthouse

Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan was arrested April 25 by federal authorities at the Milwaukee County Courthouse, accused of obstructing an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation. The arrest, confirmed by Brady McCarron, spokesman for the U.S. Marshals Service, took place around 8 a.m. and has sent ripples through the local judicial system. Dugan, a veteran judge in her ninth year on the bench, allegedly helped an undocumented immigrant, Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, evade ICE agents during a court appearance on April 18.

FBI Director Kash Patel announced the arrest, stating, 'Just NOW, the FBI arrested Judge Hannah Dugan out of Milwaukee, Wisconsin on charges of obstruction — after evidence of Judge Dugan obstructing an immigration arrest operation last week.' The incident has drawn significant attention due to Dugan's long-standing career and her actions in a sensitive immigration-related case.

Details of the Alleged Obstruction

The incident occurred when ICE agents arrived at the courthouse with an arrest warrant for Flores-Ruiz, a 30-year-old Mexican immigrant accused of misdemeanor battery. According to sources, Chief Judge Carl Ashley directed the agents to Dugan’s courtroom. However, Dugan is accused of misdirecting the agents, leading Flores-Ruiz and an attorney through a side door to a private hallway, allowing the immigrant to temporarily avoid arrest.

'We believe Judge Dugan intentionally misdirected federal agents away from the subject to be arrested in her courthouse, Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, allowing the subject — an illegal alien — to evade arrest,' Patel said. Despite the initial evasion, ICE agents pursued and apprehended Flores-Ruiz on foot, ensuring he was taken into custody. Patel emphasized that Dugan’s actions 'created increased danger to the public,' highlighting the risks posed by the judge’s alleged interference.

Investigation and Public Reaction

The FBI launched an investigation following reports of Dugan’s actions. The probe gained traction after sources confirmed to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that Dugan was under scrutiny for helping an undocumented immigrant avoid arrest. On April 23, Dugan declined to comment on the investigation, and both ICE and the FBI’s Milwaukee office refrained from providing additional details at the time.

Public sentiment, as reflected in posts on X, has been intense, with many expressing support for the arrest. One user wrote, 'This is what we needed to see!' while another called for continued action, stating, 'KEEP THE ARRESTS COMING.' These reactions underscore the strong feelings surrounding immigration enforcement and judicial accountability in the current climate.

Dugan’s Background and Judicial Career

Hannah Dugan, a Milwaukee native, has been a prominent figure in Wisconsin’s legal community for nearly three decades. Before her judicial role, she worked with legal aid organizations and served as executive director of Catholic Charities, focusing on civil law and civic leadership. Elected to the Milwaukee County Circuit Court in 2016 and unopposed in 2022, her current term extends to 2028.

The allegations against Dugan have raised questions about her judicial conduct, particularly given her reputation for serving underserved communities. Her arrest marks a significant moment, as it challenges the integrity of a judge known for her commitment to public service.

Implications for Judicial and Immigration Policy

The arrest comes amid heightened focus on immigration enforcement under the leadership of Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel. The case highlights tensions between local judicial systems and federal immigration authorities, particularly in courthouses where ICE operations have been controversial. This was the third ICE-related arrest at the Milwaukee County Courthouse since March, indicating ongoing friction.

As the case progresses, it is likely to fuel discussions about the role of judges in immigration matters and the boundaries of their authority. For now, Dugan remains in federal custody, with further details expected as the investigation unfolds.