Reported / Citable
Background
Melquisedec Leonardo-Castillo 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 magistrate judge to take the plea.
After being advised that he could have the plea taken by a district judge, Leonardo-Castillo consented to proceeding before the magistrate judge. 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 Leonardo-Castillo understood the charge, possible 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 that the plea was voluntary and supported by a sufficient factual basis.
The magistrate judge found Leonardo-Castillo guilty of the charged offense and recommended that the district court accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The case was referred to the presiding district judge for sentencing, and the parties were notified of their right to file objections within 14 days.
Key Takeaways
- The defendant pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found the Rule 11 plea requirements satisfied.
- The disposition was a recommendation to the district judge, not a final acceptance of the plea by the district court.
Why It Matters
The recommendation clears the case for district-court review and sentencing while preserving the parties’ opportunity to object. It also reflects the magistrate judge’s finding that the defendant’s guilty plea was knowing, voluntary, competent, and factually supported.