Reported / Citable
Background
Jose Andre Flores appeared with counsel before U.S. Magistrate Judge Joseph A. Cordova for a felony guilty-plea proceeding referred under a general order. Flores consented to having the magistrate judge take his plea, while sentencing remained for the presiding district judge.
After receiving Rule 11 admonishments, Flores pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to Count One: conspiracy to transport illegal aliens, in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1324(a)(1)(A)(v)(I) and (B)(i).
The Court’s Holding
Judge Cordova found that Flores understood the charge, penalties, and his rights; knowingly and voluntarily waived those rights; was competent; and entered his plea freely and voluntarily. The magistrate judge also found a sufficient factual basis for the plea.
The magistrate judge found Flores guilty of the charged offense and recommended that the district court accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The matter was referred to the presiding district judge for sentencing.
Key Takeaways
- Flores pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to conspiracy to transport illegal aliens.
- The magistrate judge found the Rule 11 requirements satisfied, including competence, voluntariness, and a factual basis.
- The filing is a recommendation; parties had 14 days to object before district-court review.
Why It Matters
The recommendation clears the case for district-court acceptance of the plea and sentencing. It also preserves the parties’ opportunity to seek de novo review through timely objections.