Reported / Citable
Background
Victor Manuel Romero-Velasquez 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 taking of the plea.
After being advised of his right to have a district judge take the plea, Romero-Velasquez consented to proceeding before the magistrate judge. 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 Romero-Velasquez understood the charge, potential penalties, and his constitutional and statutory rights; knowingly and voluntarily waived those rights; and was competent to plead guilty. The court also found that the plea was voluntary and supported by a sufficient factual basis.
Accordingly, Judge Watters found Romero-Velasquez guilty of the charged offense and recommended that Chief U.S. District Judge Alia Moses accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The case was referred to the district judge for sentencing.
Key Takeaways
- The defendant pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge recommended acceptance of the plea after completing Rule 11 advisements and findings.
- Parties have 14 days to object to the findings and recommendation.
Why It Matters
The filing does not itself constitute the district court’s acceptance of the plea or impose sentence. It is a magistrate judge’s findings and recommendation, subject to objections and review by the presiding district judge.