Reported / Citable
Background
Cristian Javier Deras-Gonzales was charged in Count One of the indictment 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 the felony guilty plea.
At an August 27, 2026 hearing, Deras-Gonzales, represented by counsel, consented to having the magistrate judge take his plea. He pleaded guilty to Count One without a plea agreement; sentencing remains before the presiding district judge.
The Court’s Holding
After conducting the required Rule 11 colloquy, Magistrate Judge Cordova found that Deras-Gonzales understood the charge, potential penalties, and his rights, and that he knowingly and voluntarily waived those rights. The court also found him competent and concluded that a sufficient factual basis supported the plea.
The magistrate judge found Deras-Gonzales guilty of illegal reentry and recommended that the district court accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The recommendation is subject to objections within 14 days.
Key Takeaways
- The defendant pleaded guilty to illegal reentry under 8 U.S.C. § 1326 without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found the plea knowing, voluntary, and supported by an adequate factual basis.
- The district judge will decide whether to accept the recommendation and will conduct sentencing.
Why It Matters
The filing reflects the Rule 11 process for a felony guilty plea taken by a magistrate judge with the defendant’s consent. It is a recommendation to the district court, not the district court’s final acceptance of the plea or a sentencing decision.