Milwaukee – Teh federal trial of Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Hannah Dugan will proceed as scheduled after a judge rejected her motion to dismiss the case. Dugan faces federal charges related to a personal relationship and alleged attempts to influence the outcome of a criminal case.
Judge Lynne Adelman ruled Aug. 26 against Dugan’s claim of judicial immunity, finding that such immunity does not shield judges from criminal prosecution. The decision clears the path for the trial to move forward, perhaps impacting the Milwaukee County court system and raising questions about judicial conduct.
Dugan was indicted earlier this year, prompting her suspension from the bench by the Wisconsin Supreme Court, which cited the public interest in temporarily relieving her of duties while the federal charges are pending. Her defense team argued judicial immunity protected her actions as a judge, but federal prosecutors countered that immunity only applies to civil lawsuits.Following the indictment, Dugan’s attorneys filed a motion to dismiss, also asserting the prosecution violated the 10th Amendment. Judge Adelman’s ruling sided with the federal government’s argument regarding immunity, citing historical precedent.
Authorities arrested Jose Flores-Ruiz, a man connected to the case, outside the courthouse after a brief foot chase. The case continues to draw scrutiny as it unfolds in the legal system.
The Source: Data in this post was produced by FOX6 news using previous coverage and help from The Associated Press.
