Reported / Citable
Background
Albert Garcia, III appeared with counsel before a magistrate judge on July 10, 2026, to enter a felony guilty plea. He pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1).
Garcia consented to have the magistrate judge conduct the plea proceeding, subject to the district judge’s final approval and sentencing. During the proceeding, the magistrate judge addressed Garcia personally, advised him under Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 11, and determined that he understood the required admonishments.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that Garcia understood the charge and its possible penalties, as well as his constitutional and statutory rights and the effect of waiving them. The judge also found that Garcia was competent, entered the plea freely and voluntarily, and had a factual basis for the plea.
Based on those findings, the magistrate judge recommended that the district court accept Garcia’s guilty plea and, after reviewing the presentence investigation report, enter a final judgment of guilt. The report and recommendation did not itself accept the plea, adjudicate Garcia guilty, or impose a sentence.
Key Takeaways
- Garcia pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl under 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1).
- The magistrate judge found that the plea satisfied Rule 11’s requirements for an informed, voluntary, competent, and factually supported plea.
- The recommendation remains subject to the district judge’s review, and the parties have 14 days after service to file specific written objections.
Why It Matters
The report reflects the procedural safeguards required before a federal court may accept a felony guilty plea. It also underscores that a magistrate judge’s recommendation is not the final adjudication: the district judge retains responsibility for accepting the plea, entering judgment, and imposing sentence.