Reported / Citable
Background
Danni Alexander Morales-Garcia was charged with illegal reentry into the United States in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1326. The case was referred by general order to U.S. Magistrate Judge JOSEPH A CORDOVA to take Morales-Garcia’s felony guilty plea.
Morales-Garcia appeared with counsel on July 2, 2026. After being advised that he could have the district judge take his plea, he consented to proceeding before the magistrate judge and pleaded guilty to Count One without a plea agreement.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that Morales-Garcia understood the charge, potential penalties, and the rights he was waiving. The judge also found that Morales-Garcia 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 given 14 days to object to the findings and recommendation.
Key Takeaways
- Morales-Garcia 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 a sufficient factual basis.
- The filing is a recommendation to the district judge, who remains responsible for accepting the plea and conducting sentencing.
Why It Matters
The recommendation records the procedural findings required before a federal felony guilty plea may be accepted, including competence, voluntariness, an understanding of the charge and rights waived, and a sufficient factual basis.
It does not impose a sentence or constitute the district judge’s final action on the plea. The recommendation remains subject to objections and review by the presiding district judge.