A Dangerous Precedent

MILWAUKEE — Yesterday, Judge Hannah Dugan, a dedicated public servant, was convicted in a case that raises serious concerns about federal overreach and judicial independence. This jury verdict sends a troubling message about the consequences faced by judges who act to protect due process in their courtrooms.

Courthouses must remain safe and accessible for all Wisconsinites, regardless of background, status, or belief. When federal agents are allowed to operate in ways that intimidate our court users or pressure judges, the integrity of our justice system is put at risk.

This case was never about one individual. It was about whether people can still walk into a courthouse without fear and trust the justice system to protect them. It’s also about the need to safeguard judicial independence. Judges must be able to do their jobs and enforce the rule of law without intimidation. This verdict underscores a broader pattern of federal actions that threaten those principles.

Let’s be clear: Everyone in Wisconsin, regardless of immigration status, deserves access to justice without fear, violence, or intimidation. While this outcome is deeply concerning, it does not change our commitment to defending the rule of law and judicial independence.

While this verdict is deeply concerning, this case is not over. We expect the Dugan legal team to pursue an appeal, and we believe higher courts must carefully review the serious constitutional questions this case raises about due process, judicial authority, and federal overreach.

Moments like this test the limits of our democracy. But they also remind us why the rule of law, independent courts, and courageous public servants matter so much. We remain committed to defending those values, standing with judges who uphold them, and working toward a justice system that is fair, humane, and worthy of the public’s trust.

We will not stay silent.

Signed organizations,
All in Wisconsin Fund
All Voting is Local
Comité Sin Fronteras
Common Cause Wisconsin
Grassroots North Shore
Leaders Igniting Transformation
League of Women Voters of Wisconsin
Milwaukee Turners
Voces de la Frontera
We Own It
Wisconsin Democracy Campaign
WI Working Families Power
Worth Fighting For Wisconsin

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.