Reported / Citable
Background
Jose Leopoldo Rivera-Alvarez, also known as Raul Reyes Alvarez, was charged by indictment with false personation in immigration matters under 18 U.S.C. § 1546(a).
On September 15, 2026, Rivera-Alvarez appeared with counsel before U.S. Magistrate Judge Laura Enriquez and pleaded guilty. He consented to a plea proceeding before the magistrate judge, subject to final approval and sentencing by the presiding district judge.
The Court’s Holding
Judge Enriquez found that Rivera-Alvarez was competent and that his guilty plea was knowing, voluntary, and supported by a factual basis. The court found that he understood the charge, potential penalties, immigration consequences, trial rights, and the advisory nature of the Sentencing Guidelines.
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 Rivera-Alvarez’s guilty plea to false personation in immigration matters under 18 U.S.C. § 1546(a).
- The plea was subject to final approval and sentencing by the presiding district judge.
- Written objections to the report and recommendation were due within 14 days of service; failure to object could bar de novo review and appellate review of accepted factual findings.
Why It Matters
The report documents a Rule 11 plea colloquy and preserves the magistrate judge’s findings that the defendant knowingly and voluntarily pleaded guilty with an adequate factual basis. It also underscores that, in this posture, the dispositive action remains a recommendation for the district judge rather than a final plea acceptance or sentence.