Reported / Citable
Background
Ricardo Felix Santiago was charged by indictment with illegal reentry in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1326(a). On July 21, 2026, Santiago and his counsel appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Laura Enriquez for a guilty-plea hearing.
Santiago consented to entering his plea before a magistrate judge, subject to final approval and sentencing by the presiding district judge. The magistrate judge conducted the plea colloquy required by Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 11.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that Santiago was competent and that his guilty plea was knowing, voluntary, and supported by a factual basis. The judge also found that Santiago understood the charge, possible penalties, immigration consequences, constitutional trial rights, advisory Sentencing Guidelines, and sentencing factors under 18 U.S.C. § 3553(a).
Based on those findings, the magistrate judge recommended that the district judge accept Santiago’s guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The report and recommendation did not itself finally accept the plea or impose a sentence.
Key Takeaways
- Santiago pleaded guilty to illegal reentry under 8 U.S.C. § 1326(a).
- The magistrate judge found that the plea satisfied Rule 11 and was knowing, voluntary, and factually supported.
- Final acceptance of the plea and sentencing remained with the presiding district judge.
Why It Matters
The recommendation documents the procedural safeguards required before a federal guilty plea may be accepted. It also underscores that a plea taken by a magistrate judge with the defendant’s consent remains subject to the district judge’s final approval.