Reported / Citable
Background
The case was referred to U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters under a general order for the taking of a felony guilty plea. Defendant Derlin Josue Mejia Antunez appeared with counsel on September 3, 2026.
After receiving Rule 11 admonishments, Mejia Antunez consented to having the magistrate judge take his plea. 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 Mejia Antunez understood the charge, potential penalties, and his constitutional and statutory rights, and that he knowingly and voluntarily waived those rights. The magistrate judge also found him competent and concluded that a sufficient factual basis supported the plea.
The magistrate judge found Mejia Antunez guilty of the count to which he pleaded and recommended that the district judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. Sentencing was referred to the presiding district judge.
Key Takeaways
- The defendant pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found the Rule 11 plea knowing, voluntary, competent, and supported by a factual basis.
- The filing is a recommendation; the district judge must decide whether to accept the plea and enter judgment.
Why It Matters
The recommendation preserves the distinction between a magistrate judge’s plea proceeding and the district judge’s final acceptance of the plea and sentencing. Parties have 14 days to file written objections to the findings and recommendation.