Reported / Citable
Background
William Duban Castillo-Cazun was charged with one count of illegal re-entry in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1326. On June 23, 2026, the defendant appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert F. Castaneda in the Western District of Texas with counsel present. After being advised of his rights under Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 11, the defendant entered into a plea agreement and pled guilty to Count One of the indictment.
This proceeding is a report and recommendation by the magistrate judge, subject to final approval and sentencing by the presiding United States District Judge. The magistrate conducted a thorough colloquy with the defendant to ensure the guilty plea was knowing, voluntary, and supported by a factual basis.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that the defendant fully understood his constitutional rights, including the right to trial, jury trial, confrontation of witnesses, and protection against self-incrimination. The court determined that the defendant comprehended the nature of the charge, the maximum possible penalties, and mandatory minimum sentences applicable to illegal re-entry. Critically, the defendant acknowledged that counsel had explained the immigration consequences of pleading guilty.
The magistrate found that the defendant’s plea was made freely, knowingly, and voluntarily without threats or inducements beyond those in the plea agreement. The court determined there was a factual basis supporting the guilty plea and that the defendant was competent to enter the plea. Based on these findings, the magistrate recommended that the district judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. Sentencing remains pending before the district judge.
Key Takeaways
- Defendant pleaded guilty to illegal re-entry under 8 U.S.C. § 1326, a federal immigration crime.
- The magistrate found all Rule 11 requirements satisfied, including defendant’s understanding of rights and voluntary nature of plea.
- Defendant waived appeal and collateral attack rights under the plea agreement, though may challenge if court departs from recommended sentencing adjustments.
- Immigration consequences were explained to defendant before plea; sentencing by district judge is pending.
Why It Matters
This case represents a routine but significant moment in federal criminal immigration prosecutions. Illegal re-entry charges under 8 U.S.C. § 1326 carry mandatory minimum penalties and trigger automatic deportation consequences. The magistrate’s careful documentation of the Rule 11 colloquy ensures the guilty plea will withstand appellate challenge and protects the conviction’s integrity.
For defendants, understanding the immigration consequences before pleading is essential, as conviction leads to certain removal from the United States. The court’s recommendation reflects the critical role magistrate judges play in federal criminal proceedings, particularly in high-volume immigration cases in border districts.