Reported / Citable
Background
Carlos Alejandro Pedroza was charged in Count One of an indictment with illegal reentry in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1326(a). On September 9, 2026, Pedroza and his counsel appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Laura Enriquez, and Pedroza pleaded guilty to the indictment.
Pedroza consented to enter his plea before a magistrate judge, subject to final approval and sentencing by the presiding district judge. The magistrate judge conducted the plea colloquy required by Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 11.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that Pedroza was competent and that his plea was knowing, voluntary, and supported by a factual basis. The judge also found that Pedroza understood the charge, possible penalties, immigration consequences, constitutional trial rights, advisory Sentencing Guidelines, and sentencing factors under 18 U.S.C. § 3553(a).
Based on those findings, the magistrate judge recommended that the district judge accept Pedroza’s guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The report and recommendation did not itself finally accept the plea or impose a sentence.
Key Takeaways
- Pedroza pleaded guilty to illegal reentry under 8 U.S.C. § 1326(a).
- The magistrate judge found that the plea satisfied Rule 11 and was knowing, voluntary, and factually supported.
- Final acceptance of the plea and sentencing remained with the presiding district judge.
Why It Matters
The recommendation documents the procedural safeguards used to ensure that Pedroza validly waived his trial rights and understood the criminal and immigration consequences of pleading guilty.
It also preserves the distinction between a magistrate judge’s recommended disposition and the district judge’s authority to give final approval and enter judgment.