Reported / Citable
Background
Juan Joel Ochoa-Paqui 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 U.S. Magistrate Judge Joseph A Cordova to take the felony guilty plea.
On July 2, 2026, Ochoa-Paqui appeared with counsel and consented to having 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 Ochoa-Paqui understood the charge, potential penalties, and the constitutional and statutory rights he was waiving. The judge also found that Ochoa-Paqui was competent, that his plea was free and voluntary, and that a sufficient factual basis supported it.
Based on those findings, the magistrate judge 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 given 14 days after receiving the recommendation to file written objections.
Key Takeaways
- Ochoa-Paqui pleaded guilty to illegal reentry under 8 U.S.C. § 1326 without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found that the plea complied with Rule 11 and was knowing, voluntary, competent, and supported by a sufficient factual basis.
- The filing is a recommendation to the district judge, who remains responsible for accepting the plea, entering judgment, and conducting sentencing.
Why It Matters
The recommendation documents the procedural safeguards required before a federal felony guilty plea may be accepted. It also preserves the distinction between the magistrate judge’s role in taking the plea and the district judge’s authority to act on the recommendation and impose sentence.