Reported / Citable
Background
Jonathan Segundo-Dejesus appeared with counsel before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters for a felony guilty-plea proceeding referred under a general order. Segundo-Dejesus consented to having the magistrate judge take his plea, while sentencing remained for the presiding district judge.
After receiving Rule 11 admonishments, Segundo-Dejesus pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to Count One of the indictment, charging illegal reentry into the United States.
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that Segundo-Dejesus understood the charge, potential penalties, and his constitutional and statutory rights; knowingly and voluntarily waived those rights; and was competent to plead guilty.
The magistrate judge also found a sufficient factual basis for the plea and found Segundo-Dejesus guilty of the charged offense. The court recommended that the district judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt.
Key Takeaways
- The defendant pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found the plea knowing, voluntary, competent, and supported by a factual basis.
- The recommendation remains subject to objections and district-court review; sentencing is before the presiding district judge.
Why It Matters
The ruling advances the case to acceptance of the plea and sentencing, but it is a findings-and-recommendation document rather than a final district-court acceptance order. Parties have 14 days to file written objections.