Reported / Citable
Background
Conrad Edward Nedd was charged with aiding and abetting second-degree murder in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§1111 and 2. The matter was referred to United States Magistrate Judge Christine L. Stetson for administration of the guilty plea in accordance with Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 11. The magistrate judge conducted the Rule 11 hearing in proper form and issued findings of fact and a recommendation that the court accept the defendant’s guilty plea.
Neither party objected to the magistrate judge’s findings and recommendation.
The Court’s Holding
Judge Marcia A. Crone adopted the magistrate judge’s findings of fact and recommendation in their entirety. The court accepted Nedd’s guilty plea to Count One of the Indictment and adjudged him guilty of aiding and abetting second-degree murder under 18 U.S.C. §§1111 and 2.
The court deferred acceptance of the plea agreement pending review of the presentence report, meaning final sentencing remains pending.
Key Takeaways
- The defendant’s guilty plea to aiding and abetting second-degree murder was accepted by the district court.
- The magistrate judge’s Rule 11 findings—confirming the plea was knowing, voluntary, and adequate—were adopted without objection from the parties.
- Sentencing is deferred pending completion of the presentence investigation report.
Why It Matters
This order resolves the guilt phase of the criminal case. By accepting the guilty plea, Nedd has conceded his guilt and waived the right to trial. The case now proceeds to sentencing, where the court will determine penalties based on the presentence report and applicable federal sentencing guidelines. For aiding and abetting second-degree murder, sentencing exposure is significant under federal law.