Reported / Citable
Background
The defendant, Dilson Alexander Landaverde Beltran, appeared with counsel before a magistrate judge to enter a felony guilty plea. He consented to having the magistrate judge conduct the plea proceeding, while sentencing remained assigned to the presiding district judge.
After Rule 11 admonishments, Landaverde Beltran pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to Count One of the indictment, charging a false statement or representation to an agency or department of the United States. He acknowledged that restitution could be imposed.
The Court’s Holding
Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters found that Landaverde Beltran understood the charge, penalties, and rights he was waiving; was competent; and entered his plea knowingly, freely, and voluntarily. The magistrate judge also found a sufficient factual basis for the plea.
The magistrate judge found the defendant guilty of the offense to which he pleaded and recommended that the district judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The recommendation remained subject to objections and review by the district court.
Key Takeaways
- The defendant pleaded guilty to Count One without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge recommended acceptance of the plea after finding Rule 11 compliance and a factual basis.
- Sentencing was referred to the presiding district judge.
Why It Matters
This is a plea-stage recommendation, not a final sentencing decision. Unless timely objections alter the result, the district judge may accept the recommended plea and proceed to sentencing, including consideration of restitution.