Reported / Citable
Background
Carlos Alexander Contreras-Baca was charged in Count One of an indictment with illegal reentry into the United States in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1326. The case was referred by general order to a U.S. magistrate judge to take Contreras-Baca’s felony guilty plea under 28 U.S.C. § 636(b)(3) and United States v. Dees.
Contreras-Baca and his counsel appeared before the magistrate judge on July 2, 2026. After being advised that he had the right to have the district judge take his plea, Contreras-Baca consented to proceed before the magistrate judge and pleaded guilty without a plea agreement.
The Court’s Holding
Following the Rule 11 plea colloquy, the magistrate judge found that Contreras-Baca understood the charge, potential penalties, and the constitutional and statutory rights he was waiving. The judge further found that Contreras-Baca was competent, that his plea was knowing and voluntary, and that a sufficient factual basis supported it.
The magistrate judge found Contreras-Baca guilty of the charge and recommended that the presiding district judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The matter was referred to the district judge for sentencing. The recommendation was not itself the district judge’s final acceptance of the plea or a sentencing decision.
Key Takeaways
- Contreras-Baca pleaded guilty to illegal reentry under 8 U.S.C. § 1326 without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found that the plea satisfied Rule 11, including competency, voluntariness, and a sufficient factual basis.
- The magistrate judge recommended acceptance of the plea and entry of judgment, while reserving sentencing for the presiding district judge.
Why It Matters
The recommendation illustrates the role magistrate judges may perform in federal felony plea proceedings when a defendant consents. It also underscores that the magistrate judge’s findings and recommendation remain subject to district-court review, with written objections due within 14 days of receipt.