Reported / Citable
Background
Antonio Cardenas-Morales was charged in the Western District of Texas with illegal reentry into the United States, in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1326. Under a general order, the case was referred to U.S. Magistrate Judge Joseph A. Cordova to take the defendant’s felony guilty plea.
At the August 27, 2026 plea hearing, Cardenas-Morales appeared with counsel, consented to having the magistrate judge take his plea, and pleaded guilty to Count One without a plea agreement. Sentencing remains for the presiding district judge.
The Court’s Holding
Magistrate Judge Cordova found that Cardenas-Morales understood the charge, potential penalties, and his constitutional and statutory rights; voluntarily waived those rights; and was competent to plead guilty. The magistrate judge also found that the plea was knowing and voluntary and supported by a sufficient factual basis.
The magistrate judge found Cardenas-Morales guilty of the illegal-reentry charge and recommended that the district court accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The recommendation also noted that the defendant may be subject to restitution.
Key Takeaways
- The defendant pleaded guilty to illegal reentry under 8 U.S.C. § 1326 without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found the Rule 11 plea requirements satisfied, including voluntariness, competence, and a factual basis.
- Parties have 14 days to object to the findings and recommendation; sentencing will be conducted by the district judge.
Why It Matters
This is a plea-stage recommendation, not a sentencing decision. Unless the district court declines the recommendation or sustains objections, the guilty plea will be accepted and the case will proceed to sentencing.