Wisconsin Judge Accused of Aiding Immigrant Dodges Arrest as Trial Approaches

Thu Dec 11 2025 10:39:43 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan faces serious charges for allegedly helping a wanted immigrant escape federal officers. As her trial nears, the jury selection kicks off amid heightened tensions regarding immigration laws.

Hannah Dugan, a Wisconsin judge, is in the spotlight as her trial looms. Federal prosecutors accuse her of obstructing justice by helping Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, a Mexican immigrant wanted by U.S. authorities, escape arrest after a courtroom hearing. As jury selection proceeds, questions about Dugan's conduct and the implications of her case in the Trump administration's immigration crackdown continue to rise. With potential biases among jurors and complicated legal arguments about judicial immunity, the situation is a heated topic of debate.

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Jury selection took place on Thursday for the trial of Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan, who is accused of helping a Mexican immigrant evade federal arrest.

This spring, federal prosecutors charged Dugan with obstruction and concealing an individual. They claim she assisted 31-year-old Eduardo Flores-Ruiz by leading him out of a back door of the courtroom when federal agents came looking for him.

Dugan's trial, starting Monday, highlights the Trump administration's ongoing tough stance on immigration. If convicted of both charges, she could face up to six years in prison.

FBI Affidavit: Escape Attempt Orchestrated

According to an affidavit from the FBI, Flores-Ruiz had illegally reentered the U.S. in 2013 and was facing charges for battery. When agents arrived at the courthouse to detain him, Dugan reportedly expressed anger and questioned the validity of their warrant.

Dugan's supporters argue that she is being targeted by the Trump administration to send a message against judges opposing immigration policies. The case has already seen significant public attention and juror bias concerns.

As attorneys sift through potential jurors, both sides are wary about how public sentiment might influence the trial outcome, with reports of politicized sentiments affecting the jury pool.

Defense Claims Judicial Immunity

Dugan's defense contends she should be immune from prosecution due to her actions as a judge, asserting that she followed proper protocols.

However, legal complexities arise in interpreting her conduct under federal guidelines, especially regarding immigration enforcement within courthouse boundaries. With the trial approaching, many are watching closely to see how this controversial case unfolds.