Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Hannah Dugan is facing federal charges following an incident in which she allegedly helped a defendant exit the courthouse through a restricted area, leading to questions about courtroom conduct and judicial boundaries.
The event unfolded on April 18, when 33-year-old Eduardo Flores-Ruiz appeared before Judge Dugan on charges related to an alleged domestic altercation. After his appearance, federal immigration authorities were prepared to take Flores-Ruiz into custody due to his undocumented status in the U.S.
Surveillance video, released by the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office, shows Judge Dugan conversing with federal agents outside her courtroom. Prosecutors allege that during this time, she redirected them toward the chief judge, which allowed Flores-Ruiz to leave through a non-public exit typically reserved for jury members.
Video footage shows Flores-Ruiz, accompanied by his attorney, leaving through the restricted door, avoiding the main area where the agents were waiting. He was later seen exiting the building and running from federal agents, who ultimately apprehended him outside the courthouse.
Judge Dugan was arrested one week later. Federal prosecutors charged her with obstructing justice and concealing an individual to prevent arrest. She was indicted on May 13 following a grand jury’s decision and pleaded not guilty two days later. Her attorneys have filed a motion to dismiss the case, arguing she is protected by judicial immunity for decisions made while performing official duties.
A pretrial hearing is scheduled for July 9, with a jury trial set for July 21, according to court documents.
Flores-Ruiz also faces federal charges related to unlawful reentry into the U.S. following a previous deportation in 2013. He has pleaded not guilty and is due in court on June 24 for a final pretrial conference.
In the wake of the incident, the Wisconsin Supreme Court issued an administrative order temporarily relieving Judge Dugan of her judicial duties. The order will remain in place pending further developments.
This case has sparked conversations around courtroom protocols, judicial discretion, and the balance between legal procedure and federal enforcement.
