Reported / Citable
Background
Yeyson Johan Castillo-Randales 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.
Castillo-Randales and his counsel appeared before the magistrate judge on July 8, 2026. After being advised that he could have the district judge take his plea, Castillo-Randales consented to proceed before the magistrate judge and pleaded guilty without a plea agreement.
The Court’s Holding
Following the Rule 11 proceeding, the magistrate judge found that Castillo-Randales understood the charge, possible penalties, and the rights he was waiving. The judge also found that the defendant was competent, entered the plea freely and voluntarily, and had a sufficient factual basis for the plea.
The magistrate judge found Castillo-Randales guilty of the charge to which he pleaded 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, and the parties were given 14 days to object to the findings and recommendation.
Key Takeaways
- Castillo-Randales pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found that the plea satisfied Rule 11 and was knowing, voluntary, and supported by a sufficient factual basis.
- The magistrate judge recommended acceptance of the plea and entry of judgment, while leaving sentencing to the presiding district judge.
Why It Matters
The recommendation documents the procedural findings required before the district judge may accept Castillo-Randales’s felony guilty plea. It also preserves the parties’ opportunity to seek district-court review by filing timely objections.