Reported / Citable
Background
Victor Manuel Alvarado-Hernandez appeared with counsel before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters for a felony guilty-plea proceeding. The case had been referred under a general order for the magistrate judge to take the plea.
After receiving Rule 11 admonishments, Alvarado-Hernandez consented to having the magistrate judge take his plea. He pleaded guilty, without a plea agreement, to Count One of the indictment, charging illegal reentry into the United States.
The Court’s Holding
Judge Watters found that Alvarado-Hernandez understood the charge, potential penalties, and his constitutional and statutory rights; voluntarily waived those rights; was competent to plead; and entered his plea freely and voluntarily. The magistrate judge also found a sufficient factual basis for the plea.
The magistrate judge found Alvarado-Hernandez guilty of the offense to which he pleaded and recommended that the district judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. Sentencing was referred to the presiding district judge.
Key Takeaways
- The defendant pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge concluded that the Rule 11 requirements were satisfied and that the plea had a sufficient factual basis.
- The filing is a findings-and-recommendation document; the district judge retains the decision whether to accept the plea and will conduct sentencing.
Why It Matters
The order advances the case from plea proceedings toward acceptance of the plea and sentencing. Parties have 14 days to object to the magistrate judge’s proposed findings and recommendation; failure to object may limit later review.