Reported / Citable
Background
Marina Verduguez-Cordova was charged in Count One of an indictment with false personation in immigration matters, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1546(a).
On September 15, 2026, Verduguez-Cordova and counsel appeared before Magistrate Judge Laura Enriquez. After receiving the Rule 11 admonishments, Verduguez-Cordova pleaded guilty. She consented to enter the plea before the magistrate judge, subject to final approval and sentencing by the presiding district judge.
The Court’s Holding
Magistrate Judge Enriquez found that Verduguez-Cordova was competent and understood her trial rights, the charge, the potential penalties, the advisory nature of the Sentencing Guidelines, and the immigration consequences of her plea.
The magistrate judge further found that the plea was free, knowing, voluntary, uncoerced, and supported by a factual basis. The report therefore recommended that the district judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt.
Key Takeaways
- The ruling is a report and recommendation, not the district judge’s final acceptance of the plea.
- The defendant pleaded guilty to false personation in immigration matters under 18 U.S.C. § 1546(a).
- Written objections must be filed within 14 days or may forfeit de novo review and appellate review of accepted factual findings.
Why It Matters
The recommendation records a complete Rule 11 plea colloquy and clears the case for the district judge’s final plea acceptance and sentencing. It also underscores that a defendant’s consent permits a magistrate judge to conduct the plea proceeding, while final approval remains with the district judge.