Reported / Citable
Background
Jesus Esquivel Limon appeared with counsel before Magistrate Judge Joseph A. Cordova for the taking of a felony guilty plea. The case had been referred under a general order, and Limon consented to having the magistrate judge conduct the plea proceeding.
After Rule 11 admonishments, Limon pleaded guilty under a plea agreement to Count One of the superseding indictment: conspiracy to transport firearms, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 933(a)(1) and (3), and (b).
The Court’s Holding
The magistrate judge found that Limon understood the charge, penalties, and his constitutional and statutory rights; voluntarily waived those rights; and was competent to plead guilty. The judge also found a sufficient factual basis for the plea and stated that Limon could be subject to restitution.
The magistrate judge found Limon guilty of the offense to which he pleaded, but recommended that the district judge accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The matter was referred to the presiding district judge for sentencing, subject to the parties’ opportunity to object to the recommendation within 14 days.
Key Takeaways
- Limon pleaded guilty to conspiracy to transport firearms under a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge concluded that the plea satisfied Rule 11’s voluntariness, competency, and factual-basis requirements.
- The recommendation leaves acceptance of the plea and sentencing for the presiding district judge.
Why It Matters
The filing is a magistrate judge’s findings and recommendation, not a final district-court acceptance of the plea or sentencing decision. Absent timely objections, the district judge may accept the recommendation and proceed to sentencing.