Reported / Citable
Background
Roger Gomez-Dominguez, also known as Jose Jeremias Dominguez, appeared with counsel before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters for entry of a felony guilty plea. The case had been referred to the magistrate judge under a general order for that purpose.
After being advised of his right to have the plea taken by a district judge and receiving the required Rule 11 admonishments, Gomez-Dominguez pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to Count One of the indictment, illegal reentry into the United States.
The Court’s Holding
Judge Watters found that Gomez-Dominguez understood the charge, potential penalties, and his constitutional and statutory rights; knowingly and voluntarily waived those rights; was competent to plead; and entered the plea freely and voluntarily. The magistrate judge also found a sufficient factual basis for the plea.
The magistrate judge found Gomez-Dominguez guilty of the charge to which he pleaded and 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.
Key Takeaways
- The defendant pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to illegal reentry.
- The magistrate judge concluded that the Rule 11 plea requirements were satisfied.
- The recommendation remains subject to objections and the district judge’s review.
Why It Matters
The decision records a magistrate judge’s recommendation, not a final district-court acceptance of the plea or sentencing decision. Absent timely objections, the district court may adopt the recommendation and proceed to sentencing.