Reported / Citable
Background
Alvin Ramon Luna Funes was charged with illegal reentry into the United States in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1326. The case was referred to a U.S. magistrate judge under a general order for the taking of a felony guilty plea.
On July 2, 2026, Luna Funes appeared with counsel and consented to have 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 Luna Funes understood the charge, potential penalties, and the constitutional and statutory rights he was waiving. The judge also found that Luna Funes was competent, that his plea was knowing and voluntary, and that a sufficient factual basis supported it.
Based on those findings, 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 advised that they had 14 days to object to the findings and recommendation.
Key Takeaways
- Luna Funes pleaded guilty to illegal reentry under 8 U.S.C. § 1326 without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found that the plea satisfied Rule 11 and was supported by an adequate factual basis.
- The recommendation remained subject to review by the district judge, who would also conduct sentencing.
Why It Matters
The filing documents the procedural safeguards required before a federal court may accept a felony guilty plea, including confirmation that the defendant understands the charge, penalties, and waived rights. It also illustrates the magistrate judge’s role in taking a plea by consent while leaving final acceptance and sentencing to the district judge.