Reported / Citable
Background
Diego Armando Galdamez Quintanilla was charged with illegal reentry into the United States. The case was referred by general order to U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters to take a felony guilty plea.
At a July 9, 2026 hearing, Galdamez Quintanilla appeared with counsel and consented to have the magistrate judge take his plea. After receiving the required Rule 11 admonishments, he pleaded guilty to Count One of the indictment without a plea agreement.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that Galdamez Quintanilla understood the charge, possible penalties, and rights he was waiving; entered the plea freely and voluntarily; and was competent to plead guilty. The judge also found a sufficient factual basis for the plea and found Galdamez Quintanilla guilty of the charge to which he pleaded.
The magistrate judge recommended that the district judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The matter was referred to the presiding district judge for sentencing, and the parties were given 14 days to object to the findings and recommendation.
Key Takeaways
- Galdamez Quintanilla pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found that the plea satisfied Rule 11 and was knowing, voluntary, competent, and supported by an adequate factual basis.
- The recommendation does not impose a sentence; sentencing remains for the presiding district judge.
Why It Matters
The filing documents the Rule 11 findings necessary to support acceptance of a felony guilty plea taken by a magistrate judge with the defendant’s consent. It recommends entry of judgment while leaving final acceptance and sentencing to the district judge.