Reported / Citable
Background
Jose Manuel Miranda-Enamorado appeared with counsel before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters for entry of a felony guilty plea. The case had been referred to the magistrate judge under a general order for that purpose.
After receiving Rule 11 admonishments and being advised of his right to have the district judge take the plea, Miranda-Enamorado consented to proceed before the magistrate judge. He pleaded guilty, without a plea agreement, to Count One of the indictment, charging illegal reentry into the United States.
The Court’s Holding
Judge Watters found that Miranda-Enamorado understood the charge, penalties, and his constitutional and statutory rights; knowingly and voluntarily waived those rights; was competent to plead; and entered his plea freely and voluntarily.
The magistrate judge also found a sufficient factual basis for the plea and found Miranda-Enamorado guilty of the offense to which he pleaded. The magistrate judge recommended that the district court accept the plea and enter a judgment of guilt; sentencing was referred to the presiding district judge.
Key Takeaways
- The defendant pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge concluded that the Rule 11 plea requirements were satisfied.
- The filing is a recommendation to the district judge, not a final sentencing decision.
Why It Matters
The recommendation clears the way for the district court to accept the guilty plea and proceed to sentencing. Parties have 14 days to file written objections to the findings and recommendation.