Former Wisconsin Judge Hannah Dugan was fined $5,000 for obstructing the arrest of an illegal immigrant at a courthouse but will not serve prison time. U.S. District Judge Lynn Adelman stated that Dugan, 66, made a poor decision influenced by her feelings about immigration policies. Dugan was convicted of felony obstruction last year after federal agents attempted to serve a warrant to Eduardo Flores-Ruiz on April 18, 2025, but was acquitted of a misdemeanor charge of concealing an individual to prevent arrest. Prosecutors had sought a sentence of 15 to 21 months in prison.
Dugan defended her actions during her sentencing, stating that they were consistent with community concerns at the courthouse and that she did not act with malicious intent. She resigned from her position as a Milwaukee County circuit judge in January amid threats of impeachment from Republican lawmakers who labeled her an activist judge. Several individuals testified on her behalf, arguing against further punishment and highlighting her character.
On the day of the incident, ICE agents arrived at the Milwaukee County courthouse to arrest Flores-Ruiz, who had reentered the United States illegally. Dugan confronted the agents, arguing that their warrant was insufficient and directed Flores-Ruiz and his attorney to exit through a back door. He was later arrested by ICE agents after a brief foot chase. Dugan's defense claimed she was shielded from prosecution due to her judicial position, but this argument was rejected by the court. Prosecutors stated that Dugan violated her oath as a judge, while Republican lawmakers criticized her actions.