FBI Arrest of Milwaukee Judge Sparks Clash Over Immigration, Judicial Independence
April 25, 2025
As the situation develops, further updates are expected as more details emerge.
Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Hannah Dugan was arrested by the FBI for allegedly assisting a man in evading immigration authorities, igniting a significant clash between the judiciary and the Trump administration over immigration enforcement.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz stated that the arrest of judges should not become a normalized practice in America, emphasizing the importance of upholding constitutional values.
Attorney General Pam Bondi condemned Dugan's actions as obstructive to justice, particularly in cases involving domestic violence, asserting that no one is above the law.
Rep. Jasmine Crockett characterized the arrest as punitive against those who oppose Trump, with other representatives expressing similar concerns about the implications of such actions.
Kash Patel, Director of the U.S. Marshals Service, accused Dugan of misdirecting federal agents away from the individual in question, which he claimed heightened public safety risks.
This incident has sparked a broader debate regarding the separation of powers and the rule of law in the United States, raising concerns about judicial independence.
The FBI has been approached for further comments on the situation, but as of now, no responses have been reported.
Summary based on 86 sources
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Sources

The Guardian • Apr 25, 2025
FBI arrests Wisconsin judge and accuses her of obstructing immigration enforcement
The Guardian • Apr 26, 2025
Trump news at a glance: Battle with judiciary escalates as FBI arrests county judge
BBC News • Apr 25, 2025
Hannah Dugan: Judge arrested after allegedly obstructing immigration agents