Former Milwaukee Judge Hannah Dugan Sentenced to Fine, No Prison Time

A federal judge on Wednesday imposed a $5,000 fine on former Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan, ruling that prison was unnecessary in her case. U.S. District Judge Lynn Adelman noted that, although sentencing guidelines suggested incarceration, they are advisory and the punishment should fit the offender, not merely the crime. He highlighted Dugan’s “lifetime of service to others, especially people who are vulnerable or in need,” and described her conduct as a brief lapse by someone who has otherwise dedicated her career to public service.

Adelman declined to order probation, stating Dugan showed no need for supervision to deter future violations. In her remarks to the court, Dugan said her actions were motivated by administrative and community concerns and were not malicious. She added that she has spent nine years striving to uphold justice, the law, and courtroom decorum.

Prosecutors had argued that Dugan abused her position by directing federal agents away from her courtroom and escorting a defendant, Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, through a private jury door, allowing him to temporarily avoid arrest. Defense attorneys requested credit for time served, and one attorney, Jason Luczak, said the team plans to appeal the sentence within the 14-day filing window.