Reported / Citable
Background
Jeovani Rangel was charged in the Western District of Texas with illegal reentry into the United States in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1326. The case was referred by general order to a magistrate judge to conduct the felony guilty-plea proceeding.
Rangel appeared with counsel on June 30, 2026. After being advised that he had the right to have a 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 Rangel understood the charge, potential penalties, and the constitutional and statutory rights he was waiving. The judge also found that Rangel was competent, entered the plea freely and voluntarily, and acknowledged that restitution might apply.
Finding a sufficient factual basis for the plea, the magistrate judge found Rangel guilty of the charge and recommended that the district judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. Sentencing remained for the presiding district judge.
Key Takeaways
- Rangel pleaded guilty to illegal reentry under 8 U.S.C. § 1326 without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found the plea knowing, voluntary, competent, and supported by a sufficient factual basis.
- The recommendation was subject to objections and final action by the district judge, who would also conduct sentencing.
Why It Matters
The recommendation documents compliance with the procedural safeguards governing a federal felony guilty plea, including personal admonishments, waiver of rights, competency, voluntariness, and a sufficient factual basis.
It does not impose sentence or constitute the district judge’s final acceptance of the plea; it recommends entry of judgment and returns the matter to the presiding district judge for sentencing.