Reported / Citable
Background
Osvaldo Alexandro Gonzalez Jr. appeared with counsel before a U.S. magistrate judge on July 6, 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 the district judge take his plea, Gonzalez consented to proceed before the magistrate judge. He pleaded guilty under a plea agreement to Count One of the indictment, which charged conspiracy to transport illegal aliens.
The Court’s Holding
Following the Rule 11 plea colloquy, the magistrate judge found that Gonzalez understood the charge, potential penalties, and the rights he was waiving. The judge also found that Gonzalez was competent, entered the plea freely and voluntarily, and that a sufficient factual basis supported it.
The magistrate judge found Gonzalez 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 report referred the case to the presiding district judge for sentencing and noted that Gonzalez may be subject to restitution.
Key Takeaways
- Gonzalez pleaded guilty under a plea agreement to conspiracy to transport illegal aliens.
- The magistrate judge concluded that the plea satisfied Rule 11 and was knowing, voluntary, and supported by a sufficient factual basis.
- The recommendation remained subject to district-court review, with written objections due within 14 days after receipt.
Why It Matters
The recommendation documents the procedural findings required before a federal felony guilty plea may be accepted. It does not impose a sentence; acceptance of the plea, entry of judgment, and sentencing remain matters for the presiding district judge.