A federal judge has ruled that Wisconsin Circuit Court Judge Hannah Dugan cannot claim judicial immunity from criminal charges alleging she obstructed the arrest of an undocumented migrant outside her courtroom. The decision, delivered Tuesday by U.S. District Judge Lynn Adelman, paves the way for a possible trial in a case that has sparked national debate.
Judge Dugan, an elected official in Milwaukee County, was indicted in April on charges of obstruction and concealing an individual wanted for arrest. Prosecutors allege that she sought to prevent federal immigration agents from detaining Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, a domestic violence suspect scheduled to appear before her. Court documents claim she diverted agents from her courtroom and escorted the man through a private exit, though he was later captured after a chase outside the courthouse.
In her defense, Dugan argued that her actions fell within the scope of her judicial responsibilities and that she should be shielded by judicial immunity, a principle that typically protects judges from civil liability for official conduct. Judge Adelman, however, ruled that such protections do not extend to criminal charges and rejected claims that the prosecution infringed on state judicial authority.
Dugan has pleaded not guilty and denies any wrongdoing. Her legal team may seek an appeal before trial proceedings move forward. The case highlights a growing clash between the judiciary and federal immigration enforcement, particularly as President Donald Trump’s administration intensifies courthouse arrests and pushes stricter immigration measures.
The outcome of the case could carry significant implications for the balance of judicial independence and federal authority. While judges often enjoy broad legal protections in carrying out their duties, Adelman’s ruling reinforces the principle that immunity cannot shield criminal conduct—even when alleged actions are tied to courtroom proceedings.
