Reported / Citable
Background
Jose Guadalupe Galvan-Rangel was charged in Count One with illegal reentry into the United States in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1326. The matter was referred by general order to U.S. Magistrate Judge Joseph A Cordova to take Galvan-Rangel’s felony guilty plea.
On July 2, 2026, Galvan-Rangel appeared with counsel and consented to having the magistrate judge take his plea. After receiving the required Rule 11 admonishments, he pleaded guilty to Count One without a plea agreement.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that Galvan-Rangel understood the charge, potential penalties, and rights he was waiving; was competent to plead; and entered the plea freely and voluntarily. The judge also found a sufficient factual basis for the plea and noted that Galvan-Rangel acknowledged he might be subject to restitution.
The magistrate judge recommended that the district judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The matter was referred to the presiding district judge for sentencing, and the parties were given 14 days after receiving the findings and recommendation to file written objections.
Key Takeaways
- Galvan-Rangel pleaded guilty to illegal reentry under 8 U.S.C. § 1326 without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found the plea knowing, voluntary, competent, and supported by a sufficient factual basis.
- The recommendation remains subject to acceptance by the district judge, who will conduct sentencing.
Why It Matters
The filing documents the Rule 11 findings supporting Galvan-Rangel’s felony guilty plea but is a magistrate judge’s recommendation, not a final sentencing decision. It also preserves the parties’ opportunity to object before the district judge acts on the recommendation.