The FBI arrested Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan on charges of obstructing immigration agents, marking a significant escalation in the Trump administration's crackdown on local authorities resisting federal deportation efforts. Judge Dugan allegedly facilitated the escape of an undocumented immigrant from her courtroom, resulting in her arrest and release on her own recognizance. The arrest highlights ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and the judiciary, with the administration demanding compliance with federal immigration enforcement. Attorney General Pam Bondi defended the arrest, emphasizing the administration's stance against local officials impeding immigration enforcement. Critics, including the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, have expressed concern over the arrest's implications for judicial independence and democracy.

Judge Hannah Dugan was arrested by the FBI for allegedly helping an undocumented immigrant evade federal agents by directing him out of her courtroom through a side door while agents waited in the public hallway.

The arrest is part of the Trump administration's broader effort to enforce immigration laws and prosecute local officials who resist federal deportation initiatives, often referred to as sanctuary policies.

Attorney General Pam Bondi defended the arrest, stating that obstruction of justice, regardless of the individual's position, will not be tolerated, citing another similar case in New Mexico.

Critics, including Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, argue that the arrest is politically motivated and undermines judicial independence, while Christopher A. Wellborn warns of potential threats to democracy.

The arrest of Judge Dugan reflects ongoing conflicts between the Trump administration and the judiciary, as local judges have frequently challenged federal immigration actions, creating tension over jurisdictional boundaries.