Reported / Citable
Background
Luis Mario Fuentes-Castro appeared with counsel before Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters for a felony guilty-plea proceeding referred under a general order. The magistrate judge advised Fuentes-Castro of his right to have the plea taken by a district judge and conducted the required Rule 11 colloquy.
Fuentes-Castro, with counsel’s advice, consented to the magistrate judge’s taking of the plea. He pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to Count One of the indictment, charging illegal reentry into the United States. Sentencing remains for the presiding district judge.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that Fuentes-Castro understood the charge, penalties, and rights at issue; knowingly and voluntarily waived his rights; was competent to plead guilty; and entered the plea freely and voluntarily. The judge also found a sufficient factual basis for the plea.
Based on those findings, the magistrate judge found Fuentes-Castro guilty of the charge to which he pleaded and recommended that the district court accept the plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The recommendation advised the parties that objections were due within 14 days.
Key Takeaways
- Fuentes-Castro pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge concluded that the Rule 11 requirements were satisfied.
- The document is a recommendation; acceptance of the plea and sentencing are for the district judge.
Why It Matters
The ruling advances the case to final plea acceptance and sentencing while preserving the parties’ opportunity to object to the magistrate judge’s findings and recommendation.