In Milwaukee, protesters gathered on Saturday outside the FBI offices, demonstrating against the arrest of a local judge. The incident is adding tension to the ongoing conflict between President Donald Trump’s administration and local officials over immigration policies.
Judge Hannah Dugan, who serves in Milwaukee County Circuit Court, has been charged with aiding a man in evading arrest by immigration authorities. Last week, she reportedly guided the man and his attorney through a jury door to avoid detention. However, the individual was later apprehended by agents after a brief chase.
The Trump administration has often criticized state and local entities for what it perceives as obstruction of federal immigration enforcement. This recent arrest highlights the growing friction between the administration and the judicial system over immigration policy.
During the protest, attendees shouted slogans in support of immigrants and displayed signs advocating for justice. Democratic state Representative Ryan Clancy addressed the crowd, emphasizing the need for a strong judiciary to balance executive power.
Judge Dugan was arrested on Friday on charges of obstructing legal proceedings and helping to conceal a person from being arrested. After a brief federal court appearance, she was released. Her attorney, Craig Mastantuono, expressed her deep regret over the incident and criticized the arrest.
In response, Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers criticized the Trump administration’s rhetoric, which he believes is undermining judicial integrity. He expressed trust in the judicial process to resolve the situation fairly.
According to court documents, Judge Dugan was informed by her clerk about the presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in her courthouse. Described as visibly upset, she reportedly confronted the agents and attempted to de-escalate the situation by leading them away.
Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, the man in Dugan’s courtroom, faced charges related to domestic violence incidents. After an altercation resulting from loud music, he reportedly assaulted two individuals. He is currently held, awaiting trial, and risks substantial penalties if convicted.
Attorney General Pam Bondi emphasized the principle of law, asserting that no professional status exempts one from legal consequences. This view was echoed by White House officials, emphasizing accountability for all.
Senator Tammy Baldwin, representing Wisconsin, deemed the judge’s arrest as an alarming and unprecedented action that endangers the separation of powers. Emilio De Torre, from Milwaukee Turners, cautioned that such federal actions could discourage people from participating in court proceedings due to intimidation.
This case is reminiscent of a previous incident involving a Massachusetts judge during the Trump administration, where charges were seen as politically motivated. That judge’s case was eventually dropped under President Biden’s administration after a self-referral for misconduct investigation.
Efforts by the Justice Department to scrutinize local officials obstructing federal immigration operations have been ongoing, signaling increased enforcement under the new administration’s directive.
Judge Dugan, elected to her position in 2016, has a background in legal aid and has served in various judicial capacities. Her educational credentials include degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.