Reported / Citable
Background
The case was referred to U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters under a general order for the taking of a felony guilty plea. Fabian Trejo-Sanchez appeared with counsel on August 4, 2026.
After advising Trejo-Sanchez that he could have a district judge take his plea, the magistrate judge conducted the Rule 11 colloquy. Trejo-Sanchez 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 Trejo-Sanchez understood the charge, potential penalties, and his constitutional and statutory rights; voluntarily waived those rights; and was competent to plead guilty. The judge also found that the plea was knowing and voluntary and supported by a sufficient factual basis.
Accordingly, the magistrate judge recommended that the district court 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 advised that objections to the recommendation were due within 14 days.
Key Takeaways
- The defendant pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found the Rule 11 requirements satisfied.
- The recommendation left acceptance of the plea and sentencing to the district judge.
Why It Matters
The decision illustrates the magistrate-judge plea process in a felony case: the magistrate judge may conduct the plea proceeding with the defendant’s consent and make findings, while the district judge retains the role of accepting the recommendation and imposing sentence.