Federal magistrate judge recommends criminal charges move forward in Dugan trial

WISCONSIN (CIVIC MEDIA) – A federal magistrate judge is recommending that criminal charges against Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan move forward. 

Dugan is accused of helping an undocumented immigrant avoid ICE agents after making an appearance in her courtroom. She is charged with knowingly concealing a person wanted on a federal warrant and obstructing a Department of Homeland Security removal proceeding.

Dugan has pleaded not guilty to the charges, claiming that she was acting in her role as a judge, has immunity for her actions, and says the prosecution violates Separation of Powers. 

In a recommendation yesterday, Magistrate Judge Nancy Joseph wrote that shielding someone from criminal law is not included in a judge’s official duties. Magistrate Judge Joseph denied a motion to dismiss charges against Dugan.

She did grant motions to file amicus, or friend of the court, briefs. The final call will come from U.S. District Judge Lynn Adelman.