Reported / Citable
Background
Melvin Alexis LAINEZ-Flores was charged with illegal reentry into the United States in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1326. The case was referred by general order to a U.S. magistrate judge to take a felony guilty plea.
On July 2, 2026, LAINEZ-Flores appeared with counsel and consented to have the magistrate judge take his plea. After receiving the required Rule 11 admonishments, he pleaded guilty to Count One without a plea agreement.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that LAINEZ-Flores understood the charge, potential penalties, and the constitutional and statutory rights he was waiving. The judge also found that he was competent, that his plea was knowing and voluntary, and that a sufficient factual basis supported it.
The magistrate judge found LAINEZ-Flores guilty of the charge and recommended that the district judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The matter was referred to the presiding district judge for sentencing, and the parties were notified that objections to the findings and recommendation were due within 14 days of receipt.
Key Takeaways
- LAINEZ-Flores pleaded guilty to illegal reentry under 8 U.S.C. § 1326.
- He entered the plea without a plea agreement and consented to the magistrate judge conducting the plea proceeding.
- The magistrate judge recommended acceptance of the plea and entry of a judgment of guilt; sentencing remained for the district judge.
Why It Matters
The recommendation records the magistrate judge’s Rule 11 findings supporting the validity of the felony guilty plea. It does not impose a sentence; that proceeding remains before the presiding district judge.