FBI Arrests Judge, Alleging She Interfered in Immigration Operation

The FBI arrested a county judge in Milwaukee on Friday, alleging that she obstructed federal authorities who were seeking to detain an [illegal aliens] by escorting the man and his defense attorney though a nonpublic jury door.

The arrest of Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Hannah Dugan marks a significant escalation in the Trump administration’s crackdown on immigration, in line with its rhetoric about going after local and state authorities on immigration-related matters. It also marks another step in the Trump administration’s battles with judges over federal policy.

In an appearance on Fox News on Friday, Attorney General Pam Bondi used the arrest to pull in the administration’s broader, repeated criticism of judges. “What’s happening to our judiciary is beyond me,” Bondi said, before using the term “deranged.”

Dugan faces charges of obstructing or impeding a proceeding before a department or agency of the United States, as well as a charge of concealing an individual to prevent his discovery and arrest.

A statement issued on Dugan’s behalf indicated she had hired former U.S. Attorney Steven Biskupic to represent her in the case. “Judge Dugan will defend herself vigorously, and looks forward to being exonerated,” the statement said. (Read more from “FBI Arrests Judge, Alleging She Interfered in Immigration Operation” HERE)