Judge Hannah Dugan of Milwaukee was arrested for allegedly obstructing immigration agents by directing an undocumented immigrant out of her courtroom through a nonpublic area. The arrest highlights escalating tensions between the Trump administration and local judiciary over immigration enforcement, particularly regarding 'sanctuary cities' and judges perceived to be impeding federal actions. The criminal complaint suggests Judge Dugan was visibly upset with the agents' presence, questioning their warrants and ultimately facilitating the immigrant's exit, leading to his capture after a foot chase. The arrest has sparked criticism from local officials and defense attorneys, who argue it undermines judicial independence and appears politically motivated. Meanwhile, the judge's defense team, led by former U.S. attorney Steven Biskupic, vows to fight the charges, asserting her commitment to the rule of law throughout her career.

Judge Hannah Dugan was arrested for allegedly obstructing immigration agents by guiding an undocumented immigrant, Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, out of her courtroom through a side door while agents awaited his arrest in a public hallway.

The arrest is seen as a significant move in the Trump administration's efforts to enforce strict immigration policies and crack down on local authorities that do not cooperate, a stance which has been contentious and seen as a challenge to judicial independence.

During the altercation, Judge Dugan reportedly confronted the federal agents, questioning the legality of their administrative warrant, which lacks the authority of a judicial warrant, and expressed her dissatisfaction with their presence in the courthouse.

Following the immigrant's exit facilitated by the judge, he was pursued and captured after a chase outside the courthouse, leading to charges against Judge Dugan for obstructing a federal proceeding and concealing an individual.

Local officials, including Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley and Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers, criticized the arrest as politically motivated, while the defense team argues that the judge has always adhered to the rule of law.

The incident reflects broader national debates over 'sanctuary cities' and how local jurisdictions balance federal immigration enforcement demands with local legal practices, contributing to ongoing legal and political tensions.

Defense attorneys and legal experts have voiced concern over the implications of the arrest on judicial independence, emphasizing the need for scrutiny of executive actions perceived as retaliatory against judges.