Reported / Citable
Background
Cristian Rene Villatoro-Villatoro appeared with counsel before a U.S. magistrate judge on July 7, 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, Villatoro-Villatoro consented to proceed before the magistrate judge. He pleaded guilty, without a plea agreement, to Count One of the indictment, which charged illegal reentry into the United States.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that Villatoro-Villatoro understood the charge, possible penalties, and the constitutional and statutory rights he was waiving. The judge also found that the defendant was competent, entered the plea freely and voluntarily, and had provided a sufficient factual basis for it.
Based on those findings, the magistrate judge 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 after receipt of the recommendation to file objections.
Key Takeaways
- Villatoro-Villatoro 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 did not impose a sentence; sentencing remains for the presiding district judge.
Why It Matters
The recommendation records the Rule 11 findings necessary for the district judge to accept the felony guilty plea. It also preserves the parties’ opportunity to object before the district court acts on the magistrate judge’s recommendation.