Wisconsin Judge Guilty of Obstructing Immigration Arrest
Milwaukee judge found guilty of obstructing a federal immigration operation after guiding a detainee to a private courtroom exit during an arrest attempt.
In Milwaukee, a sitting judge was found guilty of obstructing a federal immigration operation. The verdict follows an incident in which a judge allegedly guided a Mexican detainee toward a private exit during a courtroom arrest attempt.
What happened
On April 18, Eduardo Flores-Ruiz appeared for a scheduled hearing as agents from the FBI, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and the Drug Enforcement Administration prepared to take him into custody under an arrest warrant. During the proceedings, Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan directed Flores-Ruiz and his attorney to a private exit used for jurors, reacting with visible anger about the warrant’s scope.
Immigration agents intercepted them in the hallway, and Flores-Ruiz was later deported. Dugan faced two charges: obstructing a criminal proceeding and concealing a person from arrest. A jury found her not guilty on the concealment charge but guilty on the obstruction charge. Sentencing has not yet been scheduled.
Context and reactions
Prosecutors argued the ruling shows that federal law applies in courtrooms and that public officials cannot shield suspects from immigration enforcement. Dugan’s defense maintained she only guided the defendant to a hallway exit and did not aid his escape.
Deputy U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche praised the verdict as a rebuke to any claim that officials are above the law, stating that the ruling reinforces accountability in immigration matters.
Expert comment
Expert opinion: Legal analysts say the decision underscores the expectation that judges and other officials adhere to the law during immigration enforcement operations and may influence how similar cases are handled in the future.
Summary
The case highlights ongoing tensions between local courtroom processes and federal immigration enforcement. A sentencing date is pending, and the outcome could affect how judges navigate situations involving arrested individuals in court settings.
Key takeaway: Federal authorities will enforce immigration laws in courtrooms and hold public officials accountable for obstructing justice. BBC News
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