Reported / Citable
Background
Benito Campos-Santiago appeared with counsel before a U.S. magistrate judge to enter a felony guilty plea. The case had been referred under a general order for the magistrate judge to take the plea pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 636(b)(3).
After being advised that he could have the district judge take his plea, Campos-Santiago consented to proceeding before the magistrate judge. He pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to Count One of the indictment, which charged illegal reentry into the United States.
The Court’s Holding
Following the Rule 11 colloquy, the magistrate judge found that Campos-Santiago understood the charge, penalties, and rights he was waiving; was competent; and entered the plea freely and voluntarily. The judge also found a sufficient factual basis for the plea and found Campos-Santiago guilty of the charge.
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 notified that objections to the findings and recommendation were due within 14 days of receipt.
Key Takeaways
- Campos-Santiago pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found the plea knowing, voluntary, competent, and supported by a sufficient factual basis.
- The recommendation leaves formal acceptance of the plea, entry of judgment, and sentencing to the presiding district judge.
Why It Matters
The findings document the Rule 11 safeguards required before a federal felony guilty plea may be accepted. They also preserve the district judge’s role in reviewing the recommendation and conducting sentencing.