Reported / Citable
Background
Juan Daniel Roman-Cruz appeared with counsel before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters to enter a felony guilty plea. The case had been referred to the magistrate judge under a general order for the taking of the plea.
Roman-Cruz consented to having the magistrate judge take his plea after being advised that he could have it taken by the district judge. He pleaded guilty, without a plea agreement, to Count One of the indictment: making a false statement or representation to an agency or department of the United States.
The Court’s Holding
After conducting the Rule 11 colloquy, the magistrate judge found that Roman-Cruz understood the charge, potential penalties, and his constitutional and statutory rights, and that he knowingly and voluntarily waived those rights. The magistrate judge also found Roman-Cruz competent and concluded that a sufficient factual basis supported the plea.
The magistrate judge found Roman-Cruz guilty of the charged offense and recommended that the district court accept the plea and enter a judgment of guilt. Sentencing remains for the presiding district judge.
Key Takeaways
- Roman-Cruz pleaded guilty to making a false statement to a federal agency or department.
- The plea was entered without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge recommended acceptance of the plea; the district judge will conduct sentencing.
Why It Matters
The filing documents a completed Rule 11 plea proceeding and confirms that the magistrate judge found the plea knowing, voluntary, competent, and supported by a factual basis. Parties have 14 days to object to the recommendation.