Milwaukee County Judge Arrested by FBI for Allegedly Obstructing Federal Immigration Operation

On Friday, the FBI arrested Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Hannah Dugan, accusing her of obstructing the detention of an undocumented immigrant. According to the criminal complaint, Judge Dugan allegedly assisted the individual, who was wanted by federal authorities on an administrative immigration warrant, by escorting him and his defense attorney through a non-public jury door. This action is said to have impeded a federal law enforcement operation at her courthouse.

Judge Dugan faces two charges: obstructing or impeding a proceeding before a federal department or agency, and concealing an individual to prevent his discovery and arrest. The arrest is part of a broader effort by the federal government to address immigration-related issues, reflecting the Trump administration’s focus on pursuing local and state authorities involved in such matters.

The incident has drawn attention to the ongoing tensions between federal immigration enforcement and local jurisdictions. Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed the arrest in a social media post, highlighting the seriousness of the charges against Judge Dugan. The case underscores the complexities and challenges faced by local officials in navigating federal immigration policies.

This development is likely to have significant implications for the relationship between federal and local authorities, particularly in jurisdictions with differing views on immigration enforcement. As the legal proceedings unfold, the case will be closely watched for its potential impact on future interactions between local courts and federal immigration agencies.