Reported / Citable
Background
Ussiel Eduardo Garcia was charged with illegal reentry into the United States in Count One of an indictment. The case was referred by general order to a U.S. magistrate judge to take Garcia’s felony guilty plea.
Garcia and his counsel appeared before the magistrate judge on July 7, 2026. After being advised that he could have his plea taken by the district judge and receiving the admonishments required by Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 11, Garcia consented to proceed before the magistrate judge and pleaded guilty without a plea agreement.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that Garcia understood the charge, potential penalties, and the rights he was waiving. The judge also found that Garcia was competent, that his plea was knowing and voluntary, and that the plea had a sufficient factual basis.
Based on those findings, the magistrate judge found Garcia 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.
Key Takeaways
- Garcia pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge concluded that Garcia’s plea satisfied Rule 11 and was supported by a sufficient factual basis.
- The recommendation gave the parties 14 days after receipt to file written objections and preserve de novo district-court review.
Why It Matters
The findings document the procedural safeguards supporting Garcia’s felony guilty plea, including his consent to proceed before a magistrate judge and his knowing and voluntary waiver of rights. The recommendation is not the sentencing decision; acceptance of the plea, entry of judgment, and sentencing remain before the presiding district judge.