Reported / Citable
Background
Alan David Suarez-Castellanos, also known as Alan Castellanos-Suarez, was charged in Count One of an indictment with illegal reentry under 8 U.S.C. § 1326(a) and (b)(1).
At an August 19, 2026 plea hearing, Suarez-Castellanos appeared with counsel and pleaded guilty before a magistrate judge. He consented to the magistrate judge’s involvement, subject to final approval and sentencing by the presiding district judge.
The Court’s Holding
Magistrate Judge Robert F. Castaneda found that Suarez-Castellanos was competent and that his guilty plea was knowing, voluntary, and supported by an adequate factual basis. The judge also found that the defendant understood the charge, the rights relinquished by pleading guilty, the potential penalties, immigration consequences, and the advisory role of the Sentencing Guidelines.
The magistrate judge recommended that the district judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The report did not itself finally accept the plea or impose sentence.
Key Takeaways
- The defendant pleaded guilty to illegal reentry under 8 U.S.C. § 1326(a) and (b)(1).
- The magistrate judge concluded that Rule 11’s plea-colloquy requirements were satisfied.
- Final acceptance of the plea and sentencing remain for the district judge.
Why It Matters
The report advances the prosecution to final plea acceptance and sentencing while preserving the district judge’s final authority over both matters. It also warns that failing to object in writing before sentencing may foreclose de novo review and appellate review of factual findings later adopted by the district judge.