MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A federal judge has announced that the trial for Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan, charged with illegally aiding an immigrant in evading federal agents, will proceed as planned next month. Judge Lynn Adelman expressed that the trial will begin as scheduled on December 11, despite discussions surrounding a potential plea agreement.
Dugan was indicted in April on charges of obstruction and concealment after she allegedly assisted 31-year-old Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, who was in the U.S. illegally, in evading federal authorities. As documented in court filings, Dugan led Flores-Ruiz through a private exit when federal agents arrived at the courthouse to apprehend him.
Despite efforts by federal agents, Flores-Ruiz was caught after a foot chase and has since been deported. Dugan could face up to six years in prison if convicted on both counts. U.S. Attorney Brad Schimel disclosed that plea negotiations were ongoing, but Dugan's defense team has stated she is not interested in a deal, maintaining her innocence.
The case encapsulates the escalating tension between local jurisdictions and the federal government's stringent immigration enforcement policies. Critics argue that the Trump administration is making an example of Dugan to stifle judicial opposition to its immigration agenda.
Dugan's defense has argued that her actions were within her professional capacity, a position they intend to substantiate in court. During recent hearings, both parties discussed jury selection logistics, indicating a detailed process will be employed in light of the case's publicity. The U.S. government plans to call 25-28 witnesses, including federal agents involved in the incident.
The upcoming trial not only puts Jewish administrative values and federal immigration policies on display but reflects broader national conversations surrounding immigration enforcement, judicial independence, and community rights.
