Reported / Citable
Background
Nelson Javier Rodriguez-Cruz was charged with illegal reentry into the United States. The matter was referred by general order to U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters to conduct the felony guilty-plea proceeding.
Rodriguez-Cruz and his counsel appeared before Judge Watters on September 3, 2026. After being advised that he could have his plea taken by the district judge, Rodriguez-Cruz consented to proceeding before the magistrate judge and pleaded guilty to Count One without a plea agreement.
The Court’s Holding
Judge Watters found that Rodriguez-Cruz understood the charge, potential penalties, and the rights he was waiving; entered the plea freely and voluntarily; was competent to plead guilty; and admitted conduct supported by a sufficient factual basis. The magistrate judge also found Rodriguez-Cruz guilty of the charge to which he pleaded and noted his acknowledgment that restitution could apply.
Based on those findings, Judge Watters recommended that the presiding district judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The recommendation referred the case to the district judge for sentencing and advised the parties that they had 14 days to object.
Key Takeaways
- Rodriguez-Cruz pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found the plea knowing, voluntary, competent, and supported by an adequate factual basis.
- Acceptance of the plea and entry of judgment remained recommendations for the presiding district judge, who would also conduct sentencing.
Why It Matters
The recommendation documents the Rule 11 findings required before a federal felony guilty plea may be accepted. It also preserves the distinction between the magistrate judge’s role in conducting the plea proceeding and the district judge’s authority to accept the recommendation, enter judgment, and impose sentence.