A Minnesota man received a 33-year prison sentence for fatally stabbing his wife during a Bible study, but the details reveal a heart-wrenching story of domestic violence and a plea for greater awareness.
At a Glance
- Robert Castillo sentenced to over 33 years for stabbing his wife during a Bible study
- Castillo pleaded guilty to second-degree murder
- Incident took place on March 21, 2023, in St. Paul at Castillo’s sister’s home
- Victim, Corinna Woodhull, was planning to leave her husband
- Judge imposed a harsher sentence due to Castillo’s violent history
The Crime and Sentencing
Robert Castillo, aged 41, has been sentenced to over 33 years in prison for the brutal murder of his wife, Corinna Woodhull, during a Bible study session on March 21, 2023. Castillo, who pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, expressed regret but claimed not to recall the horrific incident due to a drug-induced psychosis. His defense attorney sought a 25-year sentence, but Judge Richard Kyle imposed a longer term, considering Castillo’s violent past.
The violent attack occurred at a Bible study hosted by Castillo’s sister in St. Paul. Witnesses reported that Castillo stabbed Woodhull multiple times with a hunting knife after she shook her head “no” in response to something he whispered to her. Family members at the scene intervened, but Woodhull was found bleeding from numerous stab wounds and was pronounced dead at Regions Hospital.
A 41-year-old man was sentenced to more than 33 years in prison for stabbing his wife to death during a Bible study session. https://t.co/TqiUpprqUn
— NECN (@NECN) September 15, 2024
A History of Violence
Assistant Ramsey County Attorney Dan Rait presented evidence of Castillo’s long history of violent behavior during the sentencing hearing. Castillo had eight prior felony convictions and was on intensive supervised release at the time of the stabbing. Additionally, he had an active warrant for his arrest for failing to appear at a court hearing related to assaulting correctional officers. Rait also brought a photo of the murder weapon to the courtroom.
“Women need to understand: Don’t accept this kind of behavior. It’s not OK.”
Corinna Woodhull’s family had advised her against marrying Castillo, a man with a known history of violence. Despite their warnings, Woodhull was committed to her marriage, hoping that she could help her husband turn his life around. Unfortunately, her trust and hope led to her tragic end. Woodhull’s mother later found divorce papers in her daughter’s car, indicating that she was preparing to leave Castillo when the fatal incident occurred.
A Call for Awareness
During the sentencing on September 13, 2024, at the Ramsey County Courthouse, Woodhull’s mother read a victim impact statement, urging others to recognize the signs of domestic abuse and take decisive action. The family highlighted the importance of not tolerating abusive behavior in relationships, a poignant reminder that resonates deeply given the tragic circumstances of Woodhull’s death.
“It’s a testament to the kind of person she was that she went through with it, thinking she could help him,” said the prosecutor. “I can’t believe that she knew her wedding vows would ultimately be her death sentence.”
Robert Castillo’s sentencing underscores the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the critical need for awareness and intervention. As the community grapples with this tragedy, it serves as a stark reminder that turning a blind eye to abusive behavior can lead to irreversible loss.
