Former Judge Hannah Dugan to Face Sentencing for Blocking ICE Arrest

On Wednesday, former Milwaukee Judge Hannah Dugan is scheduled to face sentencing for obstruction charges related to her attempt to hide an undocumented man from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in the courthouse.

Source: cdnph.upi.com

Dugan, 66, could face a sentence of 15 to 21 months in prison, as prosecutors have stated that they are seeking a ‘serious and meaningful sentence.’ Her attorneys, however, are asking for time served.

Dugan was arrested by the FBI in April 2025 and subsequently resigned from the bench on January 3, amid impeachment threats from Wisconsin Assembly Republicans. In her resignation letter, Dugan stated that she wished to avoid a ‘partisan fight in the state legislature,’ and instead allow the citizens of Wisconsin to start the year with a judge on the bench in Milwaukee County Branch 31.

The events leading up to Dugan’s arrest began when she directed ICE agents away from her court, before leading the undocumented man, Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, and his attorney through a private jury door. Agents then chased Flores-Ruiz on foot outside the courthouse, eventually arresting him.

At her sentencing, Dugan is expected to speak, and her case has sparked debate over the role of judges in immigration enforcement. While some argue that judges should remain impartial and not interfere with ICE operations, others see Dugan’s actions as a necessary response to the increasing tensions surrounding immigration policy.

The case has also raised questions about the impact of impeachment threats on the judiciary, and the potential consequences of such actions on the administration of justice.

As Dugan prepares to face sentencing, her attorneys will likely argue that she has already served sufficient time in light of her resignation and cooperation with authorities. However, prosecutors will likely push for a more severe sentence, citing the seriousness of Dugan’s actions and the potential consequences for the rule of law.

In the end, the outcome of Dugan’s sentencing will depend on the discretion of the court, and the ability of her attorneys to persuade the judge of her mitigating circumstances.

Key Facts and Figures:

• Dugan faces a sentence of 15 to 21 months in prison.
• Prosecutors are seeking a ‘serious and meaningful sentence.’
• Dugan’s attorneys are asking for time served.
• Dugan resigned from the bench on January 3, amid impeachment threats from Wisconsin Assembly Republicans.