In a striking display of the rule of law, a liberal judge from the Milwaukee County Circuit Court in Wisconsin, Hannah Dugan, has been convicted of federal obstruction charges.
This verdict comes after Dugan was accused of aiding an illegal immigrant felon in evading arrest by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) earlier this year.
According to the Western Journal, Dugan's conviction is a stark reminder that no one is above the law, not even those who preside over it. On April 18, Dugan allegedly facilitated the escape of Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, a multiple offender of illegal entry into the country, through a non-public back door in her courtroom. Flores-Ruiz was slated for arrest and deportation by ICE.
Following six hours of deliberation, the jury found Dugan guilty of felony obstruction but acquitted her of the charge of concealing an individual to prevent arrest. This conviction carries a potential sentence of up to five years.
Interim U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, Brad Schimel, responded to the verdict stating, "It was a criminal case, like many that make their way through this courthouse every day, and we all must accept the verdict peacefully." He emphasized that the prosecution was not attempting to make an example of anyone but felt it was necessary to hold Judge Dugan accountable for her actions.
Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche was more forthright in his response. "Today, a federal jury of her peers found her guilty and sent a clear message: the American people respect law and order. Nobody is above the law," he declared. He further affirmed the Department's commitment to enforcing federal immigration law and holding criminals accountable, even those in judicial robes.
Dugan's defense team expressed disappointment at the outcome but remained optimistic about the opportunity to clear Dugan's name. They stated, "While we are disappointed in today's outcome, the failure of the prosecution to secure convictions on both counts demonstrates the opportunity we have to clear Judge Dugan's name and show she did nothing wrong in this matter."
The case of Hannah Dugan serves as a potent lesson for those who misuse their positions of power to obstruct the enforcement of laws or policies they disagree with. Flores-Ruiz, the illegal immigrant aided by Dugan, has since been deported from the United States. Dugan, who facilitated his escape, was initially suspended by the Wisconsin Supreme Court following the charges. She was subsequently put on trial, convicted, and now faces a sentence of up to five years.
This case underscores the fundamental principle that every illegal action has a consequence. The law does not bend to personal political beliefs, and those who believe their convictions place them above the law should face stringent penalties, especially when they hold positions of power. As Dugan awaits her sentence, it remains to be seen whether the presiding judge will concur with this sentiment.
The conviction of Judge Dugan is a stark reminder of the importance of upholding the rule of law, even when faced with personal political disagreements. It serves as a testament to the strength of our justice system and the unwavering commitment to ensuring that no one, regardless of their position, is above the law.
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