A federal grand jury has indicted Wisconsin Circuit Court Judge Hannah Dugan on charges related to obstructing federal agents from detaining an undocumented immigrant. According to a two-page indictment, Dugan allegedly confronted Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents and misled them by claiming they required a judicial warrant for their operation. She is also accused of guiding the immigrant and his lawyer to exit through a separate door to avoid detection by federal agents.
Dugan was arrested last month and faces charges of obstructing a federal proceeding and concealing an individual to prevent their discovery and arrest. If convicted, she could face up to six years in prison and fines totaling up to $350,000. She is scheduled to enter her plea on Thursday.
Her attorney, Craig Mastantuono, stated that Dugan maintains her innocence and looks forward to being vindicated in court. Dugan’s arrest reflects the Trump administration’s heightened crackdown on immigration and has led to protests in Milwaukee.
On the day of her arrest, Attorney General Pam Bondi emphasized that anyone harboring fugitives or aiding undocumented individuals would be prosecuted. Following her arrest, Dugan was released on bond and the Wisconsin Supreme Court temporarily relieved her of her judicial duties to uphold public trust in the legal system.
The case has garnered significant media attention, highlighting the intersection of judicial authority and immigration enforcement. As it progresses, the implications for Dugan’s career and the broader legal community remain significant.
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