Reported / Citable
Background
Everardo Trigo-Ramirez appeared with counsel before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters for a felony guilty-plea proceeding referred under a general order. The magistrate judge advised Trigo-Ramirez of his right to have the plea taken by a district judge and gave the required Rule 11 admonishments.
Trigo-Ramirez, assisted by counsel, consented to the magistrate judge taking the plea. He pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to Count One of the indictment, charging illegal reentry into the United States. Sentencing remains assigned to the presiding district judge.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that Trigo-Ramirez understood the charge, potential penalties, and his constitutional and statutory rights; that he knowingly waived those rights; and that he was competent to plead guilty. The court further found that the plea was free and voluntary and supported by a sufficient factual basis.
Based on those findings, the magistrate judge found Trigo-Ramirez guilty of the charge to which he pleaded and recommended that the district court accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The recommendation is subject to objections within 14 days and has not itself accepted the plea or imposed sentence.
Key Takeaways
- The defendant pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to illegal reentry.
- The magistrate judge found the Rule 11 plea requirements satisfied.
- The district judge must act on the recommendation and will conduct sentencing.
Why It Matters
The decision is a procedural guilty-plea recommendation, not a final sentencing ruling. It preserves the parties’ opportunity to object before the district court decides whether to accept the plea and enter judgment.