Suffolk Reporter

Alexander Castillo, a 27-year-old resident of the Bronx, has been sentenced to 18 years in prison following his conviction for assault and weapon possession. The sentencing was announced by Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney after Castillo's trial revealed his involvement in a shooting incident at a Port Jefferson pool hall in December 2022.

District Attorney Tierney emphasized the importance of accountability for violent crimes, stating, "With this sentence, we want the public to know that we are holding perpetrators of violent crimes accountable." He further remarked on Castillo's actions: "The defendant attempted to settle a petty financial dispute with a gun but instead will be spending the next 18 years in prison."

The incident occurred on December 28, 2022, when Castillo spent several hours playing pool and wagering money at the pool hall. After incurring significant financial losses, he left briefly before returning with a ski mask and loaded firearm. He demanded his money back from an opponent by brandishing the weapon.

A struggle ensued as two men attempted to disarm Castillo. During the altercation, which moved outside onto the street, Castillo shot one man in the groin and another in the chest. Both victims were hospitalized and received emergency medical care.

Castillo fled before law enforcement arrived but was later apprehended by Suffolk County Police Department officers in Manhattan on February 10, 2023.

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

- Two counts of Criminal Use of a Firearm in the First Degree

- Two counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree

- One count of Criminal Use of a Firearm in the Second Degree

- Four counts of Assault in the Second Degree

- One count of Attempted Robbery in the Second Degree

- One count of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree

- One count of Petit Larceny