Reported / Citable
Background
Jose Angel Macabi-Tabare appeared with counsel before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters for a felony guilty-plea proceeding referred under a general order. Macabi-Tabare consented to having the magistrate judge take his plea, while sentencing remains for the presiding district judge.
After Rule 11 admonishments, Macabi-Tabare pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to Count One of the indictment, charging a false statement or representation to a U.S. agency or department. He also acknowledged that restitution might apply.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that Macabi-Tabare understood the charge, penalties, and his constitutional and statutory rights; voluntarily waived those rights; and was competent to plead guilty. The court also found the plea voluntary and supported by a sufficient factual basis.
Judge Watters found Macabi-Tabare guilty of the offense to which he pleaded and recommended that the district judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The recommendation is subject to objections within 14 days.
Key Takeaways
- The magistrate judge recommended acceptance of Macabi-Tabare’s guilty plea to Count One.
- The plea was entered without a plea agreement.
- Sentencing is reserved for the presiding U.S. district judge.
Why It Matters
The filing reflects a completed Rule 11 plea colloquy and a recommendation—not a final district-court acceptance of the plea or sentencing decision. Parties who seek district-court review must timely object to the proposed findings and recommendation.