Reported / Citable
Background
Adan Cervantes-Lule appeared with counsel before a U.S. magistrate judge on July 7, 2026, to enter a felony guilty plea. The matter had been referred to the magistrate judge under a general order for the taking of the plea.
After being advised that he could have his plea taken by the district judge, Cervantes-Lule consented to proceed before the magistrate judge. He pleaded guilty, without a plea agreement, to Count One of the indictment, which charged illegal reentry into the United States.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that Cervantes-Lule understood the charge, potential penalties, and the constitutional and statutory rights he was waiving. The judge also found that Cervantes-Lule was competent, entered the plea freely and voluntarily, and acknowledged that restitution might apply.
Finding a sufficient factual basis for the plea, the magistrate judge found Cervantes-Lule guilty of the charge and recommended that the district judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The matter was referred to the presiding district judge for sentencing.
Key Takeaways
- Cervantes-Lule pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found that the plea satisfied Rule 11’s competency, voluntariness, notice, and factual-basis requirements.
- The recommendation remained subject to objections within 14 days and acceptance by the district judge.
Why It Matters
The findings document the procedural safeguards required before a federal felony guilty plea may be accepted, including an informed waiver of rights and an adequate factual basis.
The ruling is a report and recommendation rather than a final sentencing decision: the district judge retains responsibility for accepting the plea, entering judgment, and imposing sentence.