Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Hannah Dugan was arrested by the FBI for allegedly obstructing justice by helping an undocumented immigrant evade arrest by federal authorities. Dugan, known for her longstanding advocacy for the poor and vulnerable, is accused of directing Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, a Mexican national facing domestic-battery charges, to exit through a non-public door to avoid immigration officers. Flores-Ruiz was ordered removed from the U.S. in 2013 and was apprehended shortly after leaving the courthouse. Dugan, who has served as a judge since 2016 and was reelected in 2022, has a history of involvement in legal and charitable organizations focused on civil rights and poverty law. Her legal team asserts her dedication to the rule of law and her intention to vigorously defend against the charges, anticipating exoneration.

Judge Hannah Dugan was arrested for allegedly instructing a defendant to evade immigration officers by using a non-public courthouse exit, leading to charges of obstruction and concealing an individual from arrest.

Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, the defendant involved, is a Mexican national previously ordered for deportation in 2013, who was facing new domestic-battery charges in Dugan's courtroom when the incident occurred.

After allegedly assisting Flores-Ruiz's escape from the courthouse, immigration authorities captured him outside following a brief pursuit.

Dugan's career is marked by a commitment to aiding the underprivileged, having held roles such as the executive director of Catholic Charities of Southeastern Wisconsin, and serving as president of the Milwaukee Bar Association.

Her professional background includes teaching as an adjunct assistant professor at Marquette University’s law school, and she is noted for her frequent engagements on ethics and poverty law.

Dugan's involvement in community activities is well-documented, with her participating in events like parades and judging poetry competitions, underscoring her active public presence.

Her educational credentials include a bachelor's and law degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a master's degree from Boston College, highlighting her extensive academic background.