Wisconsin Supreme Court Suspends Judge Amid Immigration Charges

The Wisconsin Supreme Court has suspended Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan after she was charged with federal crimes for allegedly helping a Mexican migrant, Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, evade arrest by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents. The court's order, which is effective immediately and carries no noted dissents, states the suspension aims to protect public confidence in the judiciary during ongoing criminal proceedings. Dugan is accused of directing Flores-Ruiz and his lawyer to exit the courthouse through a private jury room after learning ICE agents were present to detain him, leading to his brief escape and subsequent arrest outside. She faces two federal charges: concealing an individual to prevent arrest and obstructing a proceeding. Dugan’s legal team has expressed disappointment in the unilateral suspension, maintains her innocence, and looks forward to contesting the charges in court. A reserve judge has been assigned to cover her cases during the suspension.