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

Further, in United States v. Lanier, 520 U.S. 259 (1997), the Court held that judicial immunity cannot be used to shield a judge from criminal liability when their conduct violates clearly established law.

Dugan’s attorneys also argue that the prosecution amounts to federal overreach into Wisconsin’s state judicial processes. The motion criticizes the federal government for “disrupting active proceedings” and interfering with the judiciary’s independence.

But federal authorities contend that no one—not even judges—is above the law.

Her arrest has reignited a fiery debate over the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement policies. Critics view the case as political retaliation designed to intimidate state judges. Supporters argue it’s a necessary message: the judiciary must not obstruct immigration laws.

This is not the first time a judge has been accused of similar actions. A Massachusetts judge faced charges in 2018 for allegedly helping an undocumented immigrant escape ICE through a courthouse rear exit. That case, however, was eventually dismissed, raising questions about whether history will repeat itself.