Reported / Citable
Background
Juventino Andrade-Pedraza appeared with counsel before a magistrate judge for a felony guilty-plea proceeding. The matter had been referred under a general order, and Andrade-Pedraza consented to having the magistrate judge take his plea; sentencing remains with the presiding district judge.
After Rule 11 admonishments, Andrade-Pedraza pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to Count One, charging illegal reentry into the United States in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1326.
The Court’s Holding
Magistrate Judge Joseph A. Cordova found that Andrade-Pedraza understood the charge, penalties, and rights he was waiving; that he was competent; and that his plea was knowing, voluntary, and supported by a sufficient factual basis.
The magistrate judge found Andrade-Pedraza guilty of the charged offense and recommended that the district judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The recommendation is subject to objections and ultimate action by the district judge.
Key Takeaways
- The defendant pleaded guilty to illegal reentry under 8 U.S.C. § 1326 without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge concluded that the Rule 11 requirements were satisfied.
- The district judge will conduct sentencing after considering the recommendation.
Why It Matters
The filing confirms that the plea proceeding cleared the magistrate judge’s Rule 11 review, but it is a recommendation rather than a final district-court acceptance order. Parties have 14 days to file written objections.