MILWAUKEE (AP) — A Wisconsin judge accused of helping a Mexican immigrant evade federal authorities is set to present her case as her trial on obstruction and concealment charges winds down.
Prosecutors rested their case against Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan on Wednesday after three days of testimony. Dugan’s defense attorneys said they planned to call four witnesses starting Thursday morning. It wasn’t clear whether Dugan would take the stand. Closing arguments could begin as early as Thursday afternoon.
The highly unusual charges against a sitting judge are a significant consequence of President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown. Dugan’s supporters argue that these charges are an attempt to undermine judicial opposition to immigration arrests.
Prosecutors have aimed to show that Dugan intentionally interfered with federal immigration agents attempting to arrest 31-year-old Eduardo Flores-Ruiz in the Milwaukee County Courthouse.
Testimonies outlined that Dugan instructed her courtroom staff to assist Flores-Ruiz outside through a less accessible exit, thereby impeding the agents’ efforts. A confrontation ensued, leading to a chaotic foot chase as law enforcement struggled to apprehend Flores-Ruiz.
Furthermore, Judge Kristela Cervera confirmed her discomfort with Dugan's confrontation with the task force and expressed shock at her actions. Cervera testified that Dugan stated she was “in the doghouse” with the chief judge due to her interference.
In defense, Dugan’s team contends that her actions were based on a draft policy that suggested courtroom staff should redirect immigration enforcement inquiries to superiors. They argue that the arrest could have been executed at various points and thus Dugan should not bear full responsibility for Flores-Ruiz’s eventual arrest outside the courthouse.
