Context:

The Wisconsin Supreme Court has temporarily suspended Milwaukee Judge Hannah Dugan from her duties amidst allegations that she obstructed immigration officials trying to arrest a defendant in her courtroom. Accused of helping the individual evade arrest by directing them through a jury door, Dugan faces two federal charges for obstruction and concealing an individual. Her suspension is intended to maintain public confidence in the judiciary while the legal process unfolds. Dugan, who expressed regret over her arrest, allegedly confronted federal agents and argued about their authority, involving the chief judge in the incident. Her next court appearance is scheduled for May 15, following her release on her own recognizance after the initial hearing.

Dive Deeper:

• The Wisconsin Supreme Court has temporarily prohibited Judge Hannah Dugan from performing her duties as a circuit court judge due to allegations of obstructing immigration agents during an arrest attempt in her courtroom.

• Judge Dugan was arrested at the Milwaukee County Courthouse and faces federal charges for obstruction and concealing an individual from arrest, following an incident where she allegedly helped a defendant evade ICE officers.

• The Supreme Court’s decision to suspend Judge Dugan aims to uphold public confidence in the judicial system, as highlighted in their two-page order outlining the importance of public interest in the matter.

• Dugan's attorney stated that she regrets the incident and protests her arrest, claiming it was not conducted in the interest of public safety, while Dugan reportedly confronted federal agents, challenging their authority without the proper warrant.

• Witnesses reported that Judge Dugan stopped the defendant and their attorney from exiting through the main doors to evade immigration officials, directing them instead through a jury door, though the defendant was eventually apprehended after a brief foot chase.

• The incident has led to significant legal proceedings, with Dugan's next court appearance scheduled for May 15, during which further developments in the case will likely unfold.

• Dugan was released on her own recognizance after her initial court appearance, and her legal team has been contacted for comments on the state Supreme Court's decision to suspend her.