Reported / Citable
Background
Jesus Manuel Caballero-Sanchez appeared with counsel before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters for a felony guilty-plea proceeding. The matter had been referred to the magistrate judge by general order for the taking of the plea.
After being advised of his right to have the plea taken by a district judge and receiving Rule 11 admonishments, Caballero-Sanchez 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 Caballero-Sanchez understood the charge, penalties, and his constitutional and statutory rights; 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.
The magistrate judge found Caballero-Sanchez guilty of the charged offense and recommended that the district court accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The case was referred to the presiding district judge for sentencing.
Key Takeaways
- The recommendation concerns a guilty plea to illegal reentry, entered without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found the Rule 11 requirements satisfied, including competency, voluntariness, and a factual basis.
- Parties have 14 days to object; absent objections, the district court may accept the recommendation without de novo review.
Why It Matters
This is a report and recommendation, not a final district-court acceptance of the plea or sentencing decision. Unless timely objections are filed, the district judge will determine whether to accept the plea and enter judgment before imposing sentence.