Reported / Citable
Background
Antonio de Jesus Sanchez-Vega was charged with Illegal Re-Entry in violation of Title 8 U.S.C. § 1326(a). The defendant and his counsel appeared before the Magistrate Judge on July 8, 2026, and entered into a Plea Agreement under which Sanchez-Vega agreed to plead guilty to Count One of the Indictment. The plea was subject to final approval and sentencing by the presiding United States District Judge.
The Court’s Holding
After conducting a Rule 11 colloquy, the Magistrate Judge made fourteen findings confirming that Sanchez-Vega: understands the oath and consequences of lying; understands his right to plead not guilty and be tried by jury; understands his right to counsel at all stages; understands his trial rights including confrontation and cross-examination; understands there will be no trial if he pleads guilty; understands the nature of the charge and maximum penalties, including mandatory minimums and immigration consequences; understands the sentencing guidelines are advisory; and understands the terms of the Plea Agreement, including waiver of appeal rights.
The court found that the defendant’s plea was not induced by promises beyond the agreement, nor by threats or force; that counsel explained immigration consequences; that the defendant is competent; and that the plea is made freely, knowingly, and voluntarily with factual basis. Based on these findings, the Magistrate recommended that the District Judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt.
Key Takeaways
- Defendant pled guilty to illegal re-entry under 8 U.S.C. § 1326(a) pursuant to a Plea Agreement
- Court confirmed defendant understands constitutional trial rights and immigration consequences of the plea
- Magistrate found plea was voluntary, knowing, and not coerced
- Defendant waived right to appeal or collaterally attack sentence, but may object if district court departs from plea agreement recommendations without withdrawing plea
- Case proceeds to district judge for final approval and sentencing
Why It Matters
This case demonstrates the procedural safeguards required under Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 11 to ensure guilty pleas are constitutional and knowing. The explicit finding regarding immigration consequences is significant, as courts must ensure defendants are informed that re-entry convictions carry severe immigration consequences, including potential deportation and permanent bars to re-entry.
For immigration practitioners and criminal defense counsel, the record reflects proper colloquy confirming the defendant’s understanding of these collateral consequences before acceptance of a guilty plea in an immigration-related criminal case.