Reported / Citable
Background
Jermy Andres Saca-Puchaicela was charged with illegal reentry into the United States under 8 U.S.C. § 1326. The case was referred by general order to U.S. Magistrate Judge Joseph A Cordova to take Saca-Puchaicela’s felony guilty plea.
At a July 2, 2026 hearing, Saca-Puchaicela appeared with counsel and consented to having the magistrate judge take his plea. After receiving the admonishments required by Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 11, he pleaded guilty to Count One without a plea agreement.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that Saca-Puchaicela understood the charge, potential penalties, and the constitutional and statutory rights he was waiving. The judge further found that the plea was knowing and voluntary, Saca-Puchaicela was competent to enter it, and a sufficient factual basis supported the plea.
Based on those findings, the magistrate judge recommended that the presiding district judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The matter was referred to the district judge for sentencing, and the parties were notified that objections to the findings and recommendation were due within 14 days after receipt.
Key Takeaways
- Saca-Puchaicela pleaded guilty to illegal reentry under 8 U.S.C. § 1326 without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found that the Rule 11 requirements were satisfied and that the plea had a sufficient factual basis.
- The filing is a recommendation to the district judge, who retains responsibility for accepting the plea, entering judgment, and imposing sentence.
Why It Matters
The recommendation documents the procedural safeguards required before a federal felony guilty plea may be accepted. It also underscores the limited role of the magistrate judge in this proceeding: taking the plea with the defendant’s consent and recommending action to the presiding district judge.