Reported / Citable
Background
Victor Manuel Mendoza-Gomez appeared with counsel before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters for a felony guilty-plea proceeding. The matter had been referred under a general order for the taking of a felony plea.
After being advised of his right to have the plea taken by a district judge and receiving Rule 11 admonishments, Mendoza-Gomez consented to the magistrate judge conducting the plea proceeding. He pleaded guilty, without a plea agreement, to Count One of the indictment, illegal reentry into the United States.
The Court’s Holding
Judge Watters found that Mendoza-Gomez understood the charge, potential penalties, and his constitutional and statutory rights, and that he voluntarily waived those rights. The court also found him competent, concluded that his plea was knowing and voluntary, and found a sufficient factual basis for it.
The magistrate judge found Mendoza-Gomez guilty of the count to which he pleaded and recommended that Chief U.S. District Judge Alia Moses accept the plea and enter a judgment of guilt. Sentencing was referred to the presiding district judge.
Key Takeaways
- Mendoza-Gomez pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to illegal reentry.
- The magistrate judge found the Rule 11 plea requirements satisfied, including competence, voluntariness, and a factual basis.
- The recommendation remains subject to objections within 14 days and final action by the district court.
Why It Matters
The filing is a recommendation, not the district court’s final acceptance of the plea or sentencing decision. It documents that the magistrate judge found the plea valid after the required colloquy and sent the case to the district judge for final plea disposition and sentencing.