Reported / Citable
Background
Carlos Jose Canchica-Gonzalez was charged with Count One of an Indictment for illegal re-entry into the United States in violation of federal law. The case was referred to United States Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters for the taking of a felony guilty plea pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 636(b)(3).
On May 28, 2026, the defendant appeared before the magistrate judge with counsel. The magistrate conducted a personal colloquy with the defendant to ensure compliance with Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 11, informing the defendant of his rights and admonishing him regarding the nature and consequences of his guilty plea.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that the defendant, with advice of counsel, knowingly and voluntarily consented to have his guilty plea taken by the magistrate judge, with sentencing to be conducted by the district judge. The defendant understood the nature of the charges and penalties and freely and voluntarily waived his constitutional and statutory rights.
The magistrate determined that the defendant’s plea was voluntary, that he is competent to enter the plea, and that there is sufficient factual basis for the guilty plea to Count One. Accordingly, the magistrate recommended that the court accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt against the defendant. The defendant acknowledges that he may be subject to restitution.
Key Takeaways
- Defendant pled guilty to illegal re-entry (Count One) without a plea agreement
- Magistrate found the plea was made knowingly, voluntarily, and with sufficient factual basis
- Defendant demonstrated competency and understanding of rights and penalties
- Sentencing will be conducted by the district judge; the case is referred for that purpose
Why It Matters
This is a procedural ruling at the plea stage in a criminal immigration case. The acceptance of guilty pleas in illegal re-entry cases is a common feature of immigration enforcement, and the magistrate’s compliance with Rule 11 requirements ensures the validity of the plea and protects the defendant’s appellate rights.
The 14-day objection period allows parties to file written objections to the magistrate’s findings and recommendation, after which the district judge will conduct sentencing.