Wisconsin Judge Hannah Dugan entered a not guilty plea on Thursday to federal obstruction charges. The indictment alleges that Judge Dugan assisted a man in evading ICE agents who were attempting to apprehend him at the courthouse where she presides. The case, reported by CBS News correspondents Scott MacFarlane and Jake Rosen, has sparked significant debate about the role of judges and the enforcement of immigration laws.
The charges stem from an incident where ICE agents were reportedly seeking to detain an individual present at the courthouse. Prosecutors claim that Judge Dugan interfered with their efforts, allegedly providing assistance to the individual to avoid apprehension. Details of the specific actions taken by the judge have not been fully released, but the indictment suggests she used her position to obstruct the ICE agents.
Judge Dugan's legal team has asserted her innocence and stated that she acted within her judicial capacity. They argue that her actions were intended to ensure due process and protect the rights of individuals appearing before her court. The case is expected to involve complex legal arguments about the scope of judicial authority and the limits of federal immigration enforcement within state courthouses.
The case is ongoing, and Judge Dugan is currently free on bond. Further court proceedings are scheduled, and the outcome could have significant implications for the relationship between state courts and federal immigration agencies.
Wisconsin Judge Pleads Not Guilty to Aiding ICE Evasion
Wisconsin Judge Hannah Dugan pleaded not guilty to federal charges of obstruction. She is accused of helping a man avoid Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents at her courthouse. The case is drawing national attention, raising questions about judicial conduct and immigration enforcement. The judge maintains her innocence.
Source: Read the original article at CBS