Reported / Citable
Background
Guadalupe Sanchez Ariza was charged with one count of illegal re-entry into the United States in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1326. On July 9, 2026, the defendant appeared before Magistrate Judge Susan Hightower with counsel to enter a guilty plea and allocution pursuant to Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 11. The Magistrate Judge took the plea subject to final approval and sentencing by District Judge David A. Ezra.
The defendant was personally addressed in open court regarding his rights and the consequences of his plea. He was admonished of his constitutional and statutory rights as required, and informed of the possible penalties he faced.
Magistrate Judge Hightower recommends that the District Court accept the defendant’s guilty plea and enter a final judgment of guilt. The Magistrate Judge made specific findings that: (1) the defendant fully understands the nature of the charge and possible penalties; (2) the defendant understands his constitutional and statutory rights and the meaning of waiving them; (3) the defendant waived prosecution by indictment; (4) the plea was made freely and voluntarily; (5) the defendant is competent to enter the plea; and (6) there is a factual basis for the guilty plea.
All requirements of Rule 11 were satisfied, and the case is now ready for sentencing review, including consideration of the presentence investigation report by the District Judge.