Reported / Citable
Background
Albert Rangel appeared with counsel before Magistrate Judge Joseph A. Cordova for a felony guilty-plea proceeding referred under a general order. Rangel consented to having the magistrate judge take his plea, while sentencing remains for the presiding district judge.
After Rule 11 admonishments, Rangel pleaded guilty under a plea agreement to Count One: conspiracy to transport illegal aliens, in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1324(a)(1)(A)(v)(I) and (B)(i).
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that Rangel understood the charge, penalties, and rights he was waiving; that his plea was knowing, free, and voluntary; and that he was competent to enter it. The court also found a sufficient factual basis for the plea.
Judge Cordova found Rangel guilty of the pleaded-to charge and recommended that the district judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The recommendation remains subject to objections and district-court review; sentencing was referred to the presiding district judge.
Key Takeaways
- Rangel pleaded guilty to conspiracy to transport illegal aliens.
- The magistrate judge conducted the Rule 11 plea colloquy with Rangel’s consent.
- The filing recommends acceptance of the plea; it is not itself the district judge’s final acceptance or sentencing decision.
Why It Matters
The recommendation clears the case for district-court consideration of the plea and later sentencing. Parties have 14 days to file written objections, and failure to do so may limit later review.