Reported / Citable
Background
Jose Angel Claros-Quintanilla appeared with counsel before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters for a felony guilty-plea proceeding. The matter had been referred under a general order for the magistrate judge to take the plea.
After being advised of his right to have a district judge take the plea and receiving Rule 11 admonishments, Claros-Quintanilla pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to Count One of the indictment, charging illegal reentry into the United States. Sentencing remains with the presiding district judge.
The Court’s Holding
Judge Watters found that Claros-Quintanilla knowingly and voluntarily consented to the magistrate judge’s taking of his plea; understood the charge, potential penalties, and rights he was waiving; and was competent to plead guilty.
The magistrate judge also found an adequate factual basis for the plea and found Claros-Quintanilla guilty of the charged offense. The court recommended that the district judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The parties have 14 days to object to the recommendation.
Key Takeaways
- The defendant pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found the plea voluntary, competent, and supported by a sufficient factual basis.
- The disposition is a recommendation; the district judge will decide whether to accept the plea and will conduct sentencing.
Why It Matters
The filing documents a completed Rule 11 plea colloquy and preserves the defendant’s opportunity to object before the district judge acts on the recommendation. It does not impose sentence or finally accept the plea on behalf of the district court.