Dozens of retired jurists have rallied behind a Massachusetts state judge indicted in April for allegedly obstructing justice by preventing an immigration official from arresting a man living in the U.S. without permission.

Massachusetts District Court Judge Shelley M. Richmond Joseph and trial court officer Wesley MacGregor face criminal prosecution for allegedly preventing a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer from taking custody of the fugitive charged with narcotics possession. They were both indicted on one count of conspiracy to obstruct justice and two counts of aiding and abetting obstruction of justice. MacGregor also faces one count of perjury. If convicted of the obstruction charges, Joseph and MacGregor each face maximum sentences of up to 25 years in prison and fines of up to $250,000.