Federal charges against two former judges in New Mexico and Wisconsin for allegedly assisting illegal immigrants highlight threats to public safety and legal integrity.
Key Takeaways
- Wisconsin Judge Hannah Dugan faces charges of aiding a Mexican illegal immigrant evade arrest in her courtroom.
- Allegations against Dugan include obstruction of justice and up to 10 years in prison if convicted.
- Jose Cano, a former judge in New Mexico, is accused of sheltering a gang-connected suspect and destroying evidence.
- These cases emphasize the Department of Justice’s focus on judicial actions impacting immigration enforcement.
- Both cases highlight ongoing tensions between federal immigration policies and the judiciary’s role.
Judge Hannah Dugan’s Arrest in Wisconsin
Federal agents arrested Wisconsin Judge Hannah Dugan, alleging she assisted Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, a Mexican illegal immigrant, in evading capture during a pre-trial hearing. Flores-Ruiz, wanted for illegal entry and previous deportation, temporarily escaped arrest under Dugan’s guidance. She now faces charges of obstruction of justice, facing up to ten years in prison if convicted.
Dugan allegedly misdirected federal agents by securing Flores-Ruiz in her jury room and facilitating his exit through a restricted courthouse door. Attorney General Pam Bondi highlighted that such actions undermine public trust in the judiciary and violate legal statutes.
Accusations Against Former New Mexico Judge Jose Cano
Similar allegations surround former New Mexico Judge Jose Cano, accused of hiding a Venezuelan suspect linked to the notorious Tren de Aragua gang and destroying critical evidence. Cano’s involvement allegedly included deliberate actions to thwart investigations, with potential consequences of up to 20 years imprisonment.
Former FBI Special Agent Asha Rangappa expressed skepticism regarding these cases, suggesting potential challenges in proving allegations against Dugan. Critics argue that these cases could reflect broader political motives rather than concrete legal violations.
Developing: Federal agents have arrested Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan on charges of obstruction, alleging she helped an illegal immigrant evade detention.
In an announcement on a since-deleted social media post, FBI Director Kash Patel said, “Just NOW, the FBI… pic.twitter.com/hA0mShCiuv
— Real News No Bullshit (@NewsNotBs) April 25, 2025
Implications and Reactions to Judicial Action
The federal charges signal the Trump administration’s aggressive stance against perceived judicial hindrances to immigration enforcement. Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson criticized the federal response as damaging public faith in legal processes. Meanwhile, Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers denounced the administration for allegedly targeting non-compliant judges.
AG Bondi took a firm stance, stating, “I think some of these judges think they are beyond and above the law, and they are not. And we’re sending a very strong message today. If you are harboring a fugitive, we don’t care who you are.”
Attorney General Pam Bondi emphasized that judicial figures must remain objective and uphold the law to prevent perceived overreach. Despite legal complexities and political tensions, these cases stress the necessity of ensuring effective judicial adherence to federal immigration mandates.
Sources:
- Judge charged with obstructing immigration agents, escalating Trump’s fight with judiciary | PBS News
- FBI arrests Wisconsin judge, alleging she obstructed arrest of illegal alien | Fox News
- DOJ: New Mexico, Wisconsin Judges Who Helped Illegal Aliens Face Years in Prison
