In Video: FBI arrests Wisconsin judge for allegedly interfering in immigration operation
Federal Authorities Arrest Milwaukee County Circuit Judge for Allegedly Assisting Undocumented Migrant
In a shocking development, a Milwaukee County Circuit judge was arrested this morning on charges of obstruction related to an immigration arrest, according to a tweet from FBI Director Cash Patel, which has since been deleted. NBC News law enforcement and intelligence correspondent Tom Winter has been following this story and has obtained details from court paperwork and sources.
Judge Hannah Dugan, the arrested judge, is facing two counts: obstructing or impeding a proceeding before a department or agency of the United States in concealing an individual to prevent his discovery and arrest. The FBI alleges that Judge Dugan used the jury door, a door that allows jurors and court staff to move through non-public areas, to help an undocumented migrant evade ICE agents.
The migrant in question, Eduardo Flores Ruiz, was wanted by ICE for removal from the United States and was facing three misdemeanor counts related to physical assault. The FBI investigation alleges that Judge Dugan moved Ruiz through the jury door, allowing him to evade ICE agents.
Questions Remain
Tom Winter’s updates have left several questions unanswered. What motivated Judge Dugan to assist the migrant? Is there any connection between the judge and the suspect? How unusual is this sort of behavior for a judge? Additionally, how did the arresting agents determine that Judge Dugan had used the jury door to transport the suspect?
Witness Statements and Court Documents
According to court documents, multiple witnesses spoke to the FBI, describing what Judge Dugan did and even some of the conversations she had with counsel, court security staff, and others. The FBI alleges that Judge Dugan was aware of Ruiz’s attempts to avoid arrest and conspired to conceal him.
Next Steps
The court in Milwaukee has yet to release information on Judge Dugan’s current status, but it is expected that she will be allowed out on her own recognizance or with limited bail. The arrest has sparked widespread attention, and it remains to be seen how this case will unfold.
