Reported / Citable
Background
Luis Alonso Murillo-Hernandez appeared with counsel before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters for a felony guilty-plea proceeding. The case had been referred under a general order for the magistrate judge to take the plea.
After receiving Rule 11 admonishments, Murillo-Hernandez consented to having the magistrate judge take his plea. He 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 Murillo-Hernandez 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 that the plea was voluntary and supported by a sufficient factual basis, and found Murillo-Hernandez guilty of the charge to which he pleaded. The 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 magistrate judge recommended acceptance of Murillo-Hernandez’s guilty plea to illegal reentry.
- The plea was entered without a plea agreement after Rule 11 advisements.
- Parties had 14 days to object to the findings and recommendation.
Why It Matters
The ruling is a plea-stage recommendation, not a sentencing decision. Unless timely objections alter the outcome, the district judge may accept the plea and proceed to sentencing.