Reported / Citable
Background
Esteban De Paz-Jimenez appeared with counsel before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters for the taking of a felony guilty plea. The case had been referred under a general order pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 636(b)(3).
De Paz-Jimenez consented to having the magistrate judge take his plea. After Rule 11 admonishments, he 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 De Paz-Jimenez understood the charge, potential penalties, and his constitutional and statutory rights; that he knowingly, freely, and voluntarily waived those rights; and that he was competent to plead guilty.
The magistrate judge further found an adequate factual basis for the plea and found De Paz-Jimenez guilty of the offense to which he pleaded. The judge recommended that the district court accept the plea and enter a judgment of guilt, with sentencing to be conducted by 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 an adequate factual basis for the plea.
- The ruling is a recommendation: the district judge will decide whether to accept the plea and will impose sentence.
Why It Matters
The recommendation advances the case to acceptance of the plea and sentencing, subject to any timely objections. The parties have 14 days to object; failing to do so generally forecloses de novo review and limits appellate challenges to plain error.