Reported / Citable
Background
The case was referred by general order to a U.S. magistrate judge to take the defendant’s felony guilty plea. Miranda-Garduno appeared with counsel on July 7, 2026, and consented to have the magistrate judge conduct the plea proceeding, with sentencing reserved for the presiding district judge.
After receiving the required Rule 11 admonishments, Miranda-Garduno pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to Count One of the indictment, charging illegal reentry into the United States.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that Miranda-Garduno understood the charge, potential penalties, and the constitutional and statutory rights she was waiving. The judge also found that she was competent, that her plea and waiver were knowing and voluntary, and that the plea had a sufficient factual basis.
The magistrate judge found Miranda-Garduno guilty of the charge to which she pleaded and 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 objections to the findings and recommendation were due within 14 days after receipt.
Key Takeaways
- Miranda-Garduno pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found that the Rule 11 requirements were satisfied and that the plea was knowing, voluntary, and supported by a sufficient factual basis.
- The ruling was a recommendation to the district judge, who retained responsibility for accepting the plea, entering judgment, and imposing sentence.
Why It Matters
The findings document the safeguards required before a federal felony guilty plea may be accepted, including competency, voluntariness, understanding of the charge and penalties, waiver of rights, and a factual basis for the plea.
The recommendation also illustrates the magistrate judge’s role in conducting a felony plea proceeding with the defendant’s consent while leaving final action and sentencing to the district judge.