Reported / Citable
Background
Jorge Luis Meza-Barahona appeared with counsel before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters on August 5, 2026, for a felony guilty-plea proceeding. The case had been referred under a general order for the magistrate judge to take the plea.
Meza-Barahona consented to having the magistrate judge conduct the plea hearing. After Rule 11 admonishments, 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 Meza-Barahona understood the charge, penalties, and rights he was waiving; was competent; and entered his plea knowingly, freely, and voluntarily. The magistrate judge also found a sufficient factual basis for the plea.
The magistrate judge found Meza-Barahona guilty of the charged offense and recommended that the district judge accept the plea and enter a judgment of guilt. Sentencing remains for the presiding district judge.
Key Takeaways
- The magistrate judge recommended acceptance of Meza-Barahona’s guilty plea to illegal reentry.
- The plea was entered without a plea agreement.
- Parties have 14 days to object to the findings and recommendation.
Why It Matters
The order is a plea-stage recommendation, not a sentencing decision. Unless the district judge rejects the recommendation or sustains objections, the case will proceed to sentencing following acceptance of the guilty plea.