Reported / Citable
Background
The case was referred by general order to U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters to take the defendant’s felony guilty plea. On August 6, 2026, Yoan Carlos Morales-Hechavarria appeared with counsel and was advised that he could have the plea taken by a district judge.
After receiving Rule 11 admonishments, Morales-Hechavarria pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to Count One of the indictment, charging illegal reentry into the United States. Sentencing remains for the presiding district judge.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that Morales-Hechavarria knowingly and voluntarily consented to the magistrate judge’s taking of the plea; understood the charge, penalties, and rights he was waiving; and was competent to plead guilty.
The magistrate judge further found a sufficient factual basis for the plea and found Morales-Hechavarria guilty of the charged offense. The report and recommendation recommends that the district court accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt.
Key Takeaways
- The defendant pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found the plea voluntary, knowing, competent, and supported by a factual basis.
- Parties have 14 days to object to the recommendation; sentencing will be conducted by the district judge.
Why It Matters
This is a plea-stage recommendation, not a sentencing decision. Unless objections alter the outcome, the district judge may accept the plea and proceed to sentencing, where restitution may also be considered.