A Minnesota man will spend more than 30 years in prison for stabbing his wife to death during a Bible study group, the Associated Press reports.
Robert Castillo, 41, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in the death of his wife, Corina Woodhull, on March 18, 2024, and was sentenced to more than 33 years in prison. According to The couple, who have been married for two years, now have five children, ages 11 to 24, they told The Associated Press.
The incident happened on March 21, 2023, during a Bible study at Castillo's sister's home in St. Paul. Witnesses said Castillo whispered something to Woodhull, and when Woodhull shook his head, he pulled out a hunting knife and stabbed him multiple times, the Associated Press reported. Family members at the scene reportedly managed to disarm the suspect. (Related article: Man allegedly pulled out a knife and stabbed his wife to death during weekly Bible study)
Man who murdered wife during St. Paul Bible study sentenced to 33 years in prison https://t.co/M2gf5Gl3yf
— Pioneer Press (@PioneerPress) September 13, 2024
In court, Castillo said he regretted his actions. “Even though I don't remember anything that happened that day, I take full responsibility for my actions,” he said, and apologized to his family, news agencies reported.
According to the outlet, Judge Richard Kyle imposed a sentence of more than 33 years despite a plea from Castillo's lawyers for leniency, who had sought a 25-year sentence. Prosecutors cited Castillo's violent history, including previous felony convictions and an outstanding warrant for his arrest at the time of the murder, as justifying a longer sentence. (Related article: Judge sentences personal assistant for brutal beheading of CEO)
According to the outlet, Woodhull's family said she had been preparing to leave Castillo. Divorce papers were found in her car after her death. Her mother, Linda Castle, urged women to recognize the warning signs of domestic violence, saying: “Women need to understand. You should not accept this kind of behavior. It's not OK.”
