Reported / Citable
Background
Luis Eduardo Camez-Orduno appeared with counsel and pleaded guilty to Count One of the indictment under a plea agreement. That count charges illegal reentry in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1326(a).
Camez-Orduno consented to enter the plea before a magistrate judge, subject to final approval and sentencing by the presiding district judge. Magistrate Judge Laura Enriquez conducted the plea colloquy required by Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 11.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that Camez-Orduno was competent and that his guilty plea was knowing, voluntary, and supported by a factual basis. The court found that he understood the charge, the plea agreement, the potential penalties, immigration consequences, advisory Guidelines process, and his rights at trial.
The magistrate judge recommended that the district judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The recommendation did not itself finally accept the plea or impose sentence.
Key Takeaways
- The magistrate judge recommended acceptance of Camez-Orduno’s guilty plea to illegal reentry under 8 U.S.C. § 1326(a).
- The plea remains subject to final approval and sentencing by the district judge.
- The report warns that failing to submit written objections before sentencing may bar de novo review and appellate review of adopted factual findings.
Why It Matters
The ruling is a Rule 11 plea recommendation, not a merits decision or sentencing ruling. It confirms that the magistrate judge found the plea procedurally valid while preserving the district judge’s role in final acceptance and sentencing.