Reported / Citable
Background
Carlos Andres Querubin-Ruiz appeared with counsel before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters to enter a felony guilty plea. The matter had been referred to the magistrate judge under a general order for the taking of the plea.
After being advised that he could have the district judge take his plea, Querubin-Ruiz consented to proceed before the magistrate judge. He pleaded guilty, without a plea agreement, to Count One of the indictment, which charged illegal reentry into the United States.
The Court’s Holding
Following the Rule 11 colloquy, the magistrate judge found that Querubin-Ruiz understood the charge, potential penalties, and the rights he was waiving. The judge also found that the plea was knowing and voluntary, that Querubin-Ruiz was competent to plead guilty, and that a sufficient factual basis supported the plea.
The magistrate judge found Querubin-Ruiz guilty of the charge and recommended that the district judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The matter was referred to the presiding district judge for sentencing, and the parties were given 14 days to object to the findings and recommendation.
Key Takeaways
- Querubin-Ruiz pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found that the plea satisfied Rule 11 and was supported by a sufficient factual basis.
- The recommendation remains subject to review by the district judge, who will conduct sentencing.
Why It Matters
The filing documents the procedural safeguards required before a federal felony guilty plea may be accepted, including confirmation that the defendant understands the charge, penalties, and waived rights.
It also illustrates the magistrate judge’s role in conducting a plea proceeding and recommending acceptance while leaving entry of judgment and sentencing to the presiding district judge.