Wisconsin Judge Claims Immunity After Allegedly Aiding Illegal Immigrant Escape ICE Arrest—Legal Experts Question Validity

“The problems with the prosecution are legion,” her attorneys wrote, adding that immunity is an “absolute bar to prosecution at the outset,” not merely a defense to be considered later by a jury.

However, prosecutors tell a very different story.

According to court documents, immigration agents were at the courthouse on April 18 to arrest Flores-Ruiz, who had been charged with misdemeanor domestic violence after reentering the U.S. illegally. After being informed of ICE’s presence by her clerk, Judge Dugan allegedly expressed outrage, called the situation “absurd,” and attempted to redirect agents to the chief judge. But what followed was even more concerning: she allegedly showed Flores-Ruiz and his attorney a back exit, allowing the man to flee. A foot chase ensued outside the courthouse, ending with his arrest.

Dugan was later indicted on federal charges of obstruction and concealing an individual to prevent arrest—crimes that carry up to six years in prison.

Dugan’s defense hinges on the interpretation of judicial immunity, a long-standing doctrine designed to protect judges from civil and criminal liability for acts performed in their official capacity. Citing last year’s U.S. Supreme Court ruling in the Trump presidential immunity case, her lawyers claim she is entitled to absolute protection.