Last week, news broke that a Milwaukee County Judge was charged with obstructing ICE and federal agents. Reporting indicates that the official took steps to move an illegal immigrant, who was appearing for charges on battery and domestic assault, through a non-public exit to avoid authorities.
These actions follow just days after radical Tony Evers instructed state officials to not assist ICE.
According to the criminal complaint, federal law enforcement agents, including ICE, entered the Milwaukee County Courthouse on April 18th to apprehend Eduardo Flores-Ruiz. Flores-Ruiz, an illegal immigrant previously deported in 2013, was scheduled for a court hearing on multiple counts of domestic violence and battery.
Eyewitness accounts alleged that Judge Dugan confronted ICE agents in a public hallway and sent them to another area of the courthouse. While agents were away, the complaint highlights that Judge Dugan moved Flores-Ruiz through a non-public space, potentially to avoid capture by federal agents. A plain-clothes DEA agent followed Flores-Ruiz and confronted him outside the courthouse, where a foot chase ensured.
Let me be clear, Judge Dugan’s actions could have endangered the lives of law enforcement and the public.
Obstruction is a serious charge and one that should apply equally regardless of whether or not the individual is a defendant, witness, or a sitting judicial official. While Judge Dugan deserves her day in court, this appears to be a textbook case of obstruction.
I’m committed to securing our border and protecting our communities.
Now more than ever, state and federal officials should work together to help enforce our immigration laws, particularly when it comes to violent criminals and repeat offenders. It’s disappointing to see a number of liberal politiciansand activists fight against this approach.
Traveling Across the District
I also spent last week traveling across the 1st Congressional District, visiting Wisconsin family-owned businesses, local festivals, and community events to talk with Wisconsin families about what matters most to them.
One of the highlights of my weekend was volunteering at the Roma Lodge for the annual Racine Pancake Day. I hope you were able to join us for a great breakfast on Saturday!
