Reported / Citable
Background
Angela ARIAS-Galindez appeared with counsel before a U.S. magistrate judge to enter a felony guilty plea. The matter had been referred under a general order for the magistrate judge to conduct the plea proceeding pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 636(b)(3).
After being advised that she could have the district judge take her plea, ARIAS-Galindez consented to proceed before the magistrate judge. She pleaded guilty, without a plea agreement, to Count One of the indictment, which charged illegal reentry into the United States under 8 U.S.C. § 1326.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that ARIAS-Galindez understood the charge, potential penalties, and the constitutional and statutory rights she was waiving. The judge also found that she was competent, that her plea was knowing and voluntary, and that a sufficient factual basis supported it.
The magistrate judge found ARIAS-Galindez guilty of the offense and recommended that the district judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The case was referred to the presiding district judge for sentencing, and the parties were given 14 days to object to the findings and recommendation.
Key Takeaways
- ARIAS-Galindez pleaded guilty to illegal reentry under 8 U.S.C. § 1326 without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge determined that the plea satisfied Rule 11 and was supported by an adequate factual basis.
- The recommendation leaves acceptance of the plea, entry of judgment, and sentencing to the presiding district judge.
Why It Matters
The filing documents the procedural safeguards required before a federal felony guilty plea may be accepted. It also illustrates the magistrate judge’s role in conducting a plea proceeding by consent and recommending final action to the district judge.