Reported / Citable
Background
Ruben Adam Ugalde appeared with counsel before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters for a felony guilty-plea proceeding referred under a general order. Ugalde consented to having the magistrate judge take his plea, while sentencing was reserved for the presiding district judge.
After receiving Rule 11 admonishments, Ugalde pleaded guilty under a plea agreement to Count One of the indictment, conspiracy to transport illegal aliens. The magistrate judge also advised that Ugalde could be subject to restitution.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that Ugalde understood the charge, penalties, and his constitutional and statutory rights; that he knowingly and voluntarily waived those rights; and that he was competent to plead guilty. The court further found that the plea was voluntary and supported by a sufficient factual basis.
Judge Watters found Ugalde guilty of the offense to which he pleaded and recommended that the district judge accept the plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The recommendation remained subject to objections within 14 days and final action by the district court.
Key Takeaways
- The magistrate judge recommended acceptance of Ugalde’s guilty plea to conspiracy to transport illegal aliens.
- The recommendation followed a Rule 11 plea colloquy and Ugalde’s consent to proceed before the magistrate judge.
- Sentencing was referred to the presiding district judge.
Why It Matters
The ruling is a plea-stage findings and recommendation, not a final district-court acceptance or sentencing decision. It confirms that the magistrate judge found the Rule 11 requirements satisfied, subject to the parties’ objection period and the district judge’s disposition.