Reported / Citable
Background
Miguel Angel Sanchez-Moreno was charged in the Western District of Texas 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 a felony guilty plea.
At an August 25, 2026 hearing, Sanchez-Moreno appeared with counsel and consented to having the magistrate judge take his plea. He pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to Count One of the indictment. Sentencing was reserved for the presiding district judge.
The Court’s Holding
After conducting the Rule 11 colloquy, Magistrate Judge Cordova found that Sanchez-Moreno understood the charge, potential penalties, and the rights he was waiving. The court further found that he was competent, that his plea was knowing and voluntary, and that a sufficient factual basis supported the plea.
The magistrate judge found Sanchez-Moreno guilty of Count One and recommended that the district court accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The recommendation remained subject to objections and final action by the district judge.
Key Takeaways
- The defendant pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to illegal reentry under 8 U.S.C. § 1326.
- The magistrate judge found the plea knowing, voluntary, competent, and supported by an adequate factual basis.
- The magistrate judge recommended acceptance of the plea; sentencing was referred to the district judge.
Why It Matters
The ruling illustrates the magistrate-judge plea process in a felony case when the defendant consents and the court completes Rule 11 admonishments. It is a recommendation to the district court, not the district judge’s final acceptance order or sentencing decision.