Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Magistrate Judge Recommends Case Proceed Against Judge Hannah Dugan

U.S. District Judge Lynn Adelman must decide whether to adopt a non-binding recommendation allowing obstruction and concealment charges against Judge Hannah Dugan to proceed.

FILE - Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan leaves the federal courthouse after a hearing Thursday, May 15, 2025, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Andy Manis, File)
Image
Image
Image

Overview

  • Magistrate Judge Nancy Joseph recommended denying Dugan’s motion to dismiss on grounds of judicial immunity and state sovereignty, allowing the case to proceed.
  • Dugan, suspended by the Wisconsin Supreme Court, was indicted on charges of concealing a person to prevent arrest and obstruction for allegedly helping an undocumented defendant evade ICE in her Milwaukee courtroom.
  • Joseph ruled that absolute judicial immunity applies only to civil lawsuits and does not bar criminal prosecution, rejecting Dugan’s claim that her official judicial acts shielded her from criminal charges.
  • U.S. District Judge Lynn Adelman must decide whether to adopt the non-binding recommendation and, if accepted, schedule a trial on the misdemeanor and felony counts.
  • Conviction on both counts could carry a sentence of up to six years in prison and as much as $350,000 in fines.