Reported / Citable
Background
Nelson Villatoro-Saravia, also known as Nelson Villatoro Sarabia, was charged in Count One of the indictment with illegal reentry into the United States. The case was referred by general order to U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters to take the defendant’s felony guilty plea.
Villatoro-Saravia and his counsel appeared before the magistrate judge on July 9, 2026. After being advised that he could have the district judge take his plea, Villatoro-Saravia consented to proceed before the magistrate judge and pleaded guilty without a plea agreement.
The Court’s Holding
Following the Rule 11 plea colloquy, the magistrate judge found that Villatoro-Saravia understood the charge, possible penalties, and the rights he was waiving. The judge also found that he was competent, that his plea and waiver were knowing and voluntary, and that a sufficient factual basis supported the plea.
The magistrate judge found Villatoro-Saravia guilty of the charge to which he pleaded and recommended that the district judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. Sentencing remains for the presiding district judge, and the parties have 14 days after receiving the report and recommendation to file written objections.
Key Takeaways
- Villatoro-Saravia pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found that the Rule 11 requirements were satisfied and that the plea had an adequate factual basis.
- The magistrate judge recommended acceptance of the plea and entry of judgment; sentencing was referred to the presiding district judge.
Why It Matters
The recommendation records the magistrate judge’s determination that the felony guilty plea was valid under Rule 11. It does not impose a sentence; that proceeding remains before the district judge.
The notice also preserves a 14-day period for objections and warns that failing to object may limit district-court review and later appellate challenges.