Reported / Citable
Background
Rogelio Hernandez-Martinez appeared with counsel before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters for a felony guilty-plea proceeding referred under a general order. Hernandez-Martinez consented to having the magistrate judge take his plea, while sentencing remains for the presiding district judge.
After Rule 11 admonishments, Hernandez-Martinez pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to Count One of the indictment, charging illegal reentry into the United States.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that Hernandez-Martinez understood the charge, potential penalties, and his constitutional and statutory rights; that he knowingly and voluntarily waived those rights; and that he was competent to plead guilty.
The magistrate judge also found a sufficient factual basis for the plea and found Hernandez-Martinez guilty of the offense to which he pleaded. The court recommended that the district judge accept the plea and enter a judgment of guilt.
Key Takeaways
- The defendant pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found the plea knowing, voluntary, competent, and supported by a factual basis.
- Any objections to the recommendation must be filed within 14 days.
Why It Matters
This is a plea-stage recommendation, not the district judge’s final acceptance of the plea or imposition of sentence. Absent timely objections, the parties risk losing de novo review of the proposed findings and recommendations.