Suffolk Reporter

Alexander Castillo, 27, of the Bronx, was found guilty by a jury of assault and criminal possession of a weapon, among other charges, for shooting two men following a dispute at a Port Jefferson pool hall in December 2022. The announcement was made today by Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney.

“Violent crime such as the double shooting committed by the defendant here has a devastating impact on our community and cannot be tolerated,” said District Attorney Tierney. “I commend the Suffolk County Police Department for their diligent work in tracking down and bringing this defendant to justice, which was achieved with today’s verdict thanks to the jury’s thorough review of the evidence.”

The trial revealed that on December 28, 2022, Castillo spent several hours playing pool at a Port Jefferson pool hall. He placed wagers on each game, resulting in significant financial losses. At approximately 7:05 p.m., Castillo left the establishment but returned three minutes later wearing a ski mask and hat while carrying a loaded firearm. He attempted to reclaim his losses from his opponent by displaying the firearm and demanding money. A struggle ensued involving Castillo's opponent and another male who tried to wrestle the gun away from him. During the altercation that spilled onto the street, Castillo shot one man in the groin area and another in the chest.

Castillo fled before police arrived at the scene. Both victims were transported to local hospitals where they received emergency medical treatment for their injuries.

On February 10, 2023, members of the Suffolk County Police Department arrested Castillo in Manhattan.

On August 23, 2024, after a jury trial presided over by Supreme Court Justice Richard Ambro, Castillo was found guilty of multiple charges:

- Two counts of Criminal Use of a Firearm in the First Degree (Class B violent felonies)

- Two counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree (Class C violent felonies)

- One count of Criminal Use of a Firearm in the Second Degree (Class C violent felony)

- Four counts of Assault in the Second Degree (Class D violent felonies)

- One count of Attempted Robbery in the Second Degree (Class D violent felony)

- One count of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree (Class D felony)

- One count of Petit Larceny (Class A misdemeanor)