Reported / Citable
Background
Gamaliel Cardenas-Rocha appeared with counsel before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters for a felony guilty-plea proceeding. The matter had been referred under a general order for the taking of a felony plea.
After receiving Rule 11 admonishments, Cardenas-Rocha 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
Judge Watters found that Cardenas-Rocha 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.
The magistrate judge found Cardenas-Rocha guilty of the offense to which he pleaded and 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 defendant pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found the Rule 11 plea knowing, voluntary, competent, and supported by a factual basis.
- The filing is a recommendation; parties have 14 days to object.
Why It Matters
The recommendation clears the way for the district court to accept the plea formally and proceed to sentencing. Absent timely objections, parties risk losing de novo district-court review and face appellate review only for plain error as to unobjected-to findings and conclusions.