Reported / Citable
Background
Jerameel Rodriguez Morales appeared with counsel before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters for entry of a felony guilty plea. The case had been referred to the magistrate judge under a general order for the taking of the plea.
After being advised of his right to have a district judge take the plea and receiving the required Rule 11 admonishments, Rodriguez Morales pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to Count One of the indictment, illegal reentry into the United States.
The Court’s Holding
Judge Watters found that Rodriguez Morales consented to the magistrate judge’s taking of the plea; understood the charge, penalties, rights, and consequences; knowingly and voluntarily waived his rights; and was competent to plead guilty.
The magistrate judge also found a sufficient factual basis for the plea and found Rodriguez Morales guilty of the offense to which he pleaded. The findings and recommendation advise Chief U.S. District Judge Alia Moses to accept the plea and enter a judgment of guilt; sentencing remains for 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 requirements satisfied and a factual basis for the plea.
- The recommendation is subject to objections within 14 days and awaits district-court action.
Why It Matters
The filing is a magistrate judge’s recommendation, not a final district-court acceptance of the plea or sentencing decision. Unless timely objections alter the result, the district judge may accept the plea and later impose sentence.