Reported / Citable
Background
Austin Minnick pleaded guilty to Count One of an indictment charging conspiracy to injure a means of communication intended for civil-defense functions, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 371 and 1362.
United States Magistrate Judge Roy S. Payne conducted a Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 11 plea proceeding and issued findings of fact and a recommendation that the district court accept Minnick’s guilty plea. The recommendation was filed May 26, 2026.
The Court’s Holding
District Judge Rodney Gilstrap adopted the magistrate judge’s findings of fact and recommendation.
Pursuant to Minnick’s plea agreement, the court accepted the guilty plea and found Minnick guilty of Count One. The order did not impose sentence.
Key Takeaways
- The district court adopted the magistrate judge’s Rule 11 plea recommendation.
- Minnick was found guilty of conspiracy under 18 U.S.C. §§ 371 and 1362.
- The order resolves guilt on Count One, not sentencing.
Why It Matters
The order formally converts Minnick’s plea agreement and guilty plea into a district-court finding of guilt. The case proceeds to the remaining sentencing stage.