Reported / Citable
Background
The case was referred by general order to U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters to take Yeferson Josue Aguilar-Euceda’s felony guilty plea. Aguilar-Euceda appeared with counsel on July 9, 2026, and consented to having the magistrate judge take his plea rather than the district judge.
After receiving the required Rule 11 admonishments, Aguilar-Euceda pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to Count One of the indictment, which charged illegal reentry into the United States. Sentencing remained for the presiding district judge.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that Aguilar-Euceda understood the charge, potential penalties, and the constitutional and statutory rights he was waiving. The judge also found that Aguilar-Euceda was competent, that his plea was free and voluntary, and that a sufficient factual basis supported it.
Based on those findings, the magistrate judge found Aguilar-Euceda guilty of the charge and recommended that the district judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The report also noted that Aguilar-Euceda may be subject to restitution and referred the case to the district judge for sentencing.
Key Takeaways
- Aguilar-Euceda pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found the plea knowing, voluntary, competent, and supported by a sufficient factual basis.
- The recommendation is subject to district-court review, and the parties have 14 days after receiving it to file written objections.
Why It Matters
The findings document the Rule 11 safeguards required before a federal felony guilty plea may be accepted. They also distinguish the magistrate judge’s role in taking the plea and issuing a recommendation from the district judge’s responsibility to accept the plea, enter judgment, and impose sentence.