Reported / Citable
Background
The case was referred to U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters under a general order for the taking of a felony guilty plea. On August 5, 2026, Osvaldo Marcial Cardenas-Uribe appeared with counsel for a Rule 11 plea hearing.
Cardenas-Uribe consented to having the magistrate judge take his plea. He pleaded guilty, without a plea agreement, to Count One of the indictment, charging illegal reentry into the United States. Sentencing was reserved for the presiding district judge.
The Court’s Holding
Judge Watters found that Cardenas-Uribe understood the charge, penalties, and the constitutional and statutory rights he waived; was competent to plead; and entered his plea freely and voluntarily. The magistrate judge also found a sufficient factual basis for the plea.
The magistrate judge found Cardenas-Uribe guilty of Count One and recommended that the district court accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The recommendation advised the parties that objections were due within 14 days.
Key Takeaways
- The defendant pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found the Rule 11 plea knowing, voluntary, and supported by a factual basis.
- The filing is a recommendation to the district judge; sentencing remains for the presiding district judge.
Why It Matters
The recommendation clears the case for district-court acceptance of the plea and sentencing. It also preserves the parties’ opportunity to object before the district judge acts on the recommendation.