Reported / Citable
Background
Abraham Cardenas-Vasquez was charged with illegal reentry into the United States in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1326. On June 18, 2026, he appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Joseph A. Cordova with counsel present. The magistrate judge informed the defendant of his right to have his plea taken by the district judge and advised him of the protections afforded under Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 11.
The defendant consented to having his guilty plea accepted by the magistrate judge, with sentencing to be conducted by Chief Judge Alia Moses. Cardenas-Vasquez entered a guilty plea to Count One of the indictment without any plea agreement.
The Court’s Holding
Magistrate Judge Cordova found that the defendant understood the nature of the charges and penalties, understood his constitutional and statutory rights, and freely and voluntarily waived them. The magistrate judge determined that the defendant’s plea was knowing, voluntary, and competently entered.
The magistrate judge recommended that the district court accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt against the defendant. The court noted that there was a sufficient factual basis for the plea and that the defendant acknowledged potential liability for restitution. Sentencing will be conducted by the presiding district judge.
Key Takeaways
- The defendant entered an unconditional guilty plea to illegal reentry without a plea agreement
- The magistrate judge found the plea satisfied all Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 11 requirements for a knowing and voluntary plea
- The sentencing determination has been referred to the district judge
Why It Matters
This case reflects the procedural safeguards required in federal criminal practice when defendants enter guilty pleas to felony charges. Illegal reentry under 8 U.S.C. § 1326 carries significant potential penalties, and federal courts carefully examine pleas to ensure defendants fully understand the consequences and are not coerced. The magistrate judge’s recommendation must be reviewed and formally approved by the district court before final judgment and sentencing.