Reported / Citable
Background
The case was referred by general order to U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters to take the defendant’s felony guilty plea. On July 30, 2026, Llanes-Jimenez and counsel appeared before the magistrate judge.
The magistrate judge advised Llanes-Jimenez that he could have his plea taken by a district judge and conducted the Rule 11 plea colloquy. Llanes-Jimenez, with counsel’s advice, consented to proceeding before the magistrate judge and pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to Count One, illegal reentry into the United States.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that Llanes-Jimenez understood the charge, potential penalties, and his constitutional and statutory rights; knowingly and voluntarily waived those rights; and was competent to plead guilty. The court also found that the plea was voluntary and supported by a sufficient factual basis.
The magistrate judge found Llanes-Jimenez guilty of the charge to which he pleaded and recommended that the district court accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. Sentencing remains for the presiding district judge.
Key Takeaways
- The defendant pleaded guilty to Count One, illegal reentry, without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge concluded that the Rule 11 requirements were satisfied and that a factual basis supported the plea.
- The filing is a recommendation; parties have 14 days to object, and sentencing will be conducted by the district judge.
Why It Matters
The recommendation clears the way for the district court to accept Llanes-Jimenez’s guilty plea and proceed to sentencing. It also preserves the parties’ opportunity to seek district-court review through timely objections.