Reported / Citable
Background
Jose Javier Farfan-Solorio 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 Rule 11 admonishments, Farfan-Solorio consented to having the magistrate judge take his plea and pleaded guilty, without a plea agreement, to Count One of the indictment: illegal reentry into the United States. Sentencing remains for the presiding district judge.
The Court’s Holding
Judge Watters found that Farfan-Solorio understood the charge, possible penalties, and his constitutional and statutory rights; that he 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 Farfan-Solorio guilty of the charged offense. The court recommended that the district judge accept the guilty 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 an adequate factual basis.
- The recommendation is subject to objections within 14 days, and sentencing will be conducted by the district judge.
Why It Matters
This is a magistrate judge’s findings and recommendation, not the district court’s final acceptance of the plea or a sentencing ruling. Unless timely objections alter the result, the case proceeds to the district judge for acceptance of the plea, entry of judgment, and sentencing.