Reported / Citable
Background
Everardo Cavazos appeared with counsel before a magistrate judge on July 6, 2026, for entry of a felony guilty plea. The case had been referred under a general order for the taking of the plea.
After being advised of his right to have a district judge take the plea, Cavazos consented to proceeding before the magistrate judge. He pleaded guilty, without a plea agreement, to Count One of the indictment: conspiracy to transport illegal aliens.
The Court’s Holding
Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters found that Cavazos understood the charge, penalties, and his constitutional and statutory rights; voluntarily waived those rights; was competent; and entered his plea freely and voluntarily. The magistrate judge also found a sufficient factual basis for the plea.
The magistrate judge found Cavazos guilty of the charge to which he pleaded and recommended that the district judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. Sentencing remains for the presiding district judge.
Key Takeaways
- Cavazos pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to conspiracy to transport illegal aliens.
- The magistrate judge concluded that the Rule 11 plea requirements were satisfied.
- The recommendation is subject to objections within 14 days and requires action by the district judge.
Why It Matters
This is a plea-stage recommendation, not a final sentencing decision. It illustrates the magistrate judge’s role in conducting a felony plea colloquy with the defendant’s consent while leaving acceptance of the recommendation and sentencing to the district judge.