Reported / Citable
Background
Reina Margarita Guifarro-Rodriguez was charged in Count One of the indictment with illegal reentry into the United States. The case was referred by general order to U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters to take her felony guilty plea.
At a July 9, 2026 hearing, Guifarro-Rodriguez appeared with counsel and consented to have the magistrate judge take her plea. After receiving the required Rule 11 admonishments, she pleaded guilty to Count One without a plea agreement.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that Guifarro-Rodriguez understood the charge, possible penalties, and the constitutional and statutory rights she was waiving. He also found that she was competent, that her plea was free and voluntary, and that the plea had a sufficient factual basis.
Based on those findings, 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 advised that they had 14 days to object to the findings and recommendation.
Key Takeaways
- Guifarro-Rodriguez pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found that the plea satisfied Rule 11 and was knowing, voluntary, and supported by a sufficient factual basis.
- The recommendation left acceptance of the plea, entry of judgment, and sentencing to the presiding district judge.
Why It Matters
The recommendation documents the procedural safeguards required before a federal felony guilty plea may be accepted. It also clarifies the magistrate judge’s limited role: taking the plea and making findings and a recommendation, while the district judge retains responsibility for accepting the plea and imposing sentence.