Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Hannah Dugan is facing federal charges following an incident in which she allegedly helped a defendant exit the courthouse through a restricted area, leading to questions about courtroom conduct and judicial boundaries.

The event unfolded on April 18, when 33-year-old Eduardo Flores-Ruiz appeared before Judge Dugan on charges related to an alleged domestic altercation. After

his appearance, federal immigration authorities were prepared to take Flores-Ruiz into custody due to his undocumented status in the U.S.

Surveillance video, released by the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office, shows Judge Dugan conversing with federal agents outside her courtroom. Prosecutors allege that during this time, she redirected them toward the chief judge, which allowed Flores-Ruiz to leave through a non-public exit typically reserved for jury members.