Reported / Citable
Background
Jorge Armando Ruiz-Padron was charged in Count One of the indictment with illegal reentry into the United States. The case was referred by general order to a U.S. magistrate judge to take Ruiz-Padron’s felony guilty plea.
At a July 8, 2026 hearing, Ruiz-Padron appeared with counsel and consented to having the magistrate judge take his plea. After receiving the admonishments required by Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 11, he pleaded guilty to Count One without a plea agreement.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that Ruiz-Padron understood the charge, potential penalties, and the rights he was waiving; that he entered the plea freely and voluntarily; and that he was competent to plead guilty. The judge also found a sufficient factual basis for the plea and found Ruiz-Padron guilty of the charge to which he pleaded.
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 to object to the findings and recommendation.
Key Takeaways
- Ruiz-Padron pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found the plea knowing, voluntary, competent, and supported by a sufficient factual basis.
- The recommendation leaves formal acceptance of the plea, entry of judgment, and sentencing to the presiding district judge.
Why It Matters
The recommendation records the Rule 11 findings needed for the district judge to accept Ruiz-Padron’s felony guilty plea. It also preserves the parties’ opportunity to seek district-court review by filing timely objections.