In brief
U.S. District Judge Lynn Adelman confirmed that the trial for Judge Hannah Dugan will begin on December 11, rejecting discussions of a potential plea agreement. Dugan is accused of helping an undocumented immigrant evade arrest by federal agents. If convicted, she faces up to six years in prison. The case highlights tensions between local judges and federal immigration authorities under the Trump administration.
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A federal judge confirmed that the trial for Judge Hannah Dugan of Milwaukee County will proceed as scheduled on December 11. Judge Lynn Adelman stated during a hearing that all parties should prepare for jury selection, despite discussions about a possible plea deal not materializing.Dugan faces charges of obstruction and concealing an individual to prevent arrest, stemming from an incident in April where she allegedly helped 31-year-old Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, an undocumented immigrant, evade arrest by federal agents. Prosecutors claim Dugan was informed that agents were outside her courtroom and subsequently led Flores-Ruiz through a private exit where he was eventually chased down and apprehended.Her defense attorneys assert that Dugan was executing her duties as a judge when she guided Flores-Ruiz away from the agents, maintaining her innocence in the case. If convicted of both charges, she could face six years in prison.The looming trial underscores escalating tensions between local judicial authorities and the Trump administration's immigration enforcement policies, with many Democrats alleging that the administration is targeting judges who oppose its crackdown on illegal immigration.In preparation for trial, potential jurors will be questioned regarding their biases, as publicity surrounding the case continues to grow. The prosecution expects to present around 25 to 28 witnesses, including testimonies from immigration agents. The defense has yet to outline their witness list.The case has garnered significant attention and could have far-reaching implications, not only for Dugan but also for the judicial system's independence regarding immigration law enforcement.
