A new video shows Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan angrily confronting immigration agents inside the courthouse. This comes after federal charges accused her of helping an illegal immigrant avoid arrest.
Judge Dugan Allegedly Helped Illegal Immigrant Evade ICE
According to federal prosecutors, Judge Dugan assisted Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, a non-citizen facing domestic abuse charges, in dodging ICE agents. Authorities say she learned ICE was waiting outside her courtroom to detain him.
Instead of allowing the arrest, Dugan allegedly helped Flores-Ruiz leave through a private jury exit. This secret route allowed him to bypass immigration officers stationed at public exits.
Federal Indictment and Possible Prison Time
A federal grand jury indicted Judge Dugan earlier this month. She now faces up to six years in prison and $350,000 in fines.
The FBI claims Dugan’s actions endangered law enforcement officers and disrupted a legal arrest. The charges include obstruction of justice and abuse of power.
Surveillance Video Shows Confrontation
WISN obtained security footage from the courthouse through an open records request. The video shows Dugan walking through the halls in her judicial robe. She confronts ICE agents dressed in plain clothes.
Later in the video, Flores-Ruiz and his lawyer slip out through a restricted jury door. ICE agents are then seen chasing him outside the building before finally making an arrest.
FBI Says Judge Misdirected Agents
FBI Director Kash Patel stated that Dugan “deliberately misled agents” to delay the arrest. The criminal complaint claims she rushed the hearing to help Flores-Ruiz escape.
Court staff told investigators that Dugan looked visibly angry when she learned ICE was present. She allegedly called the situation “absurd” before leaving the bench.
Court Documents Detail the Incident
The complaint describes how ICE agents arrived early, planning a low-profile arrest. A public defender then photographed the agents and informed the court.
Soon after, Dugan expedited the case. She allegedly guided Flores-Ruiz through the jury door to avoid detection. Minutes later, ICE agents ran into the street to stop him.
Defense Claims Judicial Immunity and Constitutional Rights
Dugan’s legal team filed a motion to dismiss the case. Her attorneys argue the charges violate the Tenth Amendment and ignore her judicial immunity.
The defense says her decisions were official courtroom actions and protected under the Constitution. “Judges have authority over court operations,” the motion reads.
Case Still Pending in Federal Court
As of now, the case remains open. Judge Dugan continues to face serious charges that could end her judicial career and lead to prison time.
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