Reported / Citable
Background
Alessandra Gizelle Torres was charged with conspiracy to transport illegal aliens in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1324(a)(1)(A)(v)(I) & (B)(i). On June 1, 2026, Torres appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Joseph A Cordova with counsel for a felony guilty plea hearing. The magistrate addressed the defendant in open court regarding her rights and the procedures governing Rule 11 guilty pleas under the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure.
Torres entered a guilty plea to Count One of the indictment without a plea agreement. The magistrate conducted the required colloquy to ensure the defendant understood the nature of the charges, the potential penalties, and her constitutional rights.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge made nine findings supporting the validity of Torres’s guilty plea. The court found that Torres, with advice of counsel, consented to the guilty plea being taken by the magistrate (with sentencing to follow before the District Judge). The defendant understood the charges and penalties, understood and waived her constitutional and statutory rights, and entered the plea freely and voluntarily.
The magistrate found Torres competent to enter the guilty plea and that a sufficient factual basis existed for her plea. Based on these findings, the court recommended acceptance of the guilty plea and entry of judgment of guilt against Torres. The defendant was advised she may be subject to restitution. The case was referred to the presiding District Judge for sentencing.
Key Takeaways
- Torres pleaded guilty to conspiracy to transport illegal aliens without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate found the plea was entered knowingly, voluntarily, and with full understanding of rights and consequences.
- Sentencing will be determined by the District Judge following the 14-day objection period for the magistrate’s recommendation.
- Restitution is a potential consequence the defendant acknowledged.
Why It Matters
This case reflects continued federal prosecution of immigration-related smuggling conspiracies. The opinion demonstrates the procedural safeguards courts apply to guilty pleas in felony immigration cases, ensuring defendants understand the serious consequences of conspiracy charges related to human smuggling operations.
The recommendation now moves to District Judge Alia Moses for final determination. Any party may file objections within 14 days; failure to do so bars de novo review and limits appellate challenge to plain error grounds.