A 16-year-old from Fort Smith, Arkansas, who was arrested for a murder that took place in 2023, has recently pleaded guilty and received a sentence.
At the age of 15, Castillo found himself in custody following a shooting incident on December 6, 2023. The young teenager faced charges for the alleged murder of 15-year-old Bailey Smith and the injury of a 12-year-old.
The police have reported that the shooting occurred in the 1400 block of North 36th Street, which is located two blocks north of Tilles Park.
According to the Fort Smith Police Department (FSPD), Castillo engaged in a physical altercation with other teenagers before brandishing a firearm and opening fire.
Bailey’s loved ones and acquaintances have shared that he lost his life while bravely intervening in a fight to protect his girlfriend.
Castillo initially denied the charges of murder and battery but ultimately changed his plea on February 28th and received a sentence.
Castillo was convicted of murder and battery and was ultimately sentenced to 40 years in prison. The sentence included a 30-year term for the murder charge and an additional 10 years for the battery conviction.
In addition, he has also been given a suspended sentence of 10 years.