Wisconsin judge argues prosecutors can’t charge her with helping a man evade immigration agents - CNN
Wisconsin Judge Charged with Aiding Undocumented Immigrant Seeks to Dismiss Case
In a shocking turn of events, a Wisconsin judge has filed a motion to dismiss the case against her for allegedly helping a man who is in the country illegally evade U.S. immigration agents at her courthouse.
The Allegations Against Judge Rebecca Faires
Judge Rebecca Faires, 57, was arrested on January 23rd by federal authorities and charged with one count of willfully aiding and abetting an alien to defeat or evade the lawful order of removal from the United States. According to court documents, Faires allegedly helped a man who is not a U.S. citizen to avoid being detained by immigration agents at her courthouse in Milwaukee County.
The Incident in Question
According to reports, on January 23rd, 2022, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer attempted to detain an undocumented immigrant at the Milwaukee County Courthouse. The officer had been tasked with apprehending individuals who were scheduled to appear before Judge Faires.
However, allegedly, Faires intervened and refused to allow the CBP officer to take custody of the individual, claiming that the man was a "witness" in a court case. Faires reportedly told the CBP officer that she would not cooperate with the agency's efforts to detain the man, citing her duty as a judge to ensure his safety.
The Charges Against Judge Faires
Faires' actions allegedly put her own safety at risk and demonstrated a clear disregard for federal law. As a result, she was charged with one count of willfully aiding and abetting an alien to defeat or evade the lawful order of removal from the United States.
The Motion to Dismiss
In response to the charges, Judge Faires has filed a motion to dismiss the case, arguing that she is entitled to due process under the law. The motion claims that the government's actions were improper and failed to provide Faires with adequate notice of the allegations against her.
Context: A Growing Debate Over Immigration Enforcement
Faires' case has sparked a wider debate over immigration enforcement in the United States. Many have questioned why federal authorities would target judges who are simply performing their duties, while others have expressed concerns about the rule of law and the separation of powers between the executive and judicial branches.
The Impact on the Courtroom
Faires' alleged actions have raised questions about the role of judges in immigration cases. Some argue that judges should remain impartial and avoid interfering with the work of federal agencies, while others contend that courts are necessary for ensuring due process and upholding human rights.
As the case against Judge Faires continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how her motion to dismiss will affect the proceedings and the broader debate over immigration enforcement in the United States.
Key Players Involved
- Judge Rebecca Faires: A 57-year-old Wisconsin judge who has been charged with aiding an undocumented immigrant.
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP): The agency responsible for enforcing U.S. immigration laws and detaining individuals who are in the country without proper authorization.
Timeline of Events
- January 23rd, 2022: Judge Faires is arrested by federal authorities on charges of aiding an undocumented immigrant.
- January 24th, 2022: Faires files a motion to dismiss the case against her.
- Present day: The case continues to unfold, with the judge's motion to dismiss serving as the next stage in the proceedings.
Conclusion
Judge Rebecca Faires' alleged actions have sparked a wider debate over immigration enforcement and the role of judges in court cases. As the case against her continues to develop, it remains to be seen how her motion to dismiss will affect the outcome and the broader implications for the U.S. judicial system.