Reported / Citable
Background
Hector Javier LARIOS-Gomez was charged with illegal reentry into the United States in Count One of the indictment. The case was referred by general order to a U.S. magistrate judge to take his felony guilty plea.
On July 8, 2026, LARIOS-Gomez 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 LARIOS-Gomez understood the charge, possible penalties, and the rights he was waiving. The judge also found that he was competent, entered the plea freely and voluntarily, and that the plea had a sufficient factual basis.
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 notified that objections to the recommendation were due within 14 days of receipt.
Key Takeaways
- LARIOS-Gomez pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found the plea knowing, voluntary, competent, and supported by a sufficient factual basis.
- The recommendation does not impose a sentence; sentencing remains before the presiding district judge.
Why It Matters
The recommendation records compliance with Rule 11 and provides the district judge with the findings needed to decide whether to accept the felony guilty plea and enter judgment.
It also preserves the parties’ opportunity to object before district-court review and warns that failing to object may limit later review.