Border Patrol Agent Jailed for 18 Months on Bribery Charge

Fernando Castillo, a 42-year-old former Border Patrol Agent, has been sentenced to 18 months in prison for his role in a bribery scheme.

According to court documents, Castillo attempted to solicit a $5,000 bribe from a citizen of El Salvador and Mexico in June 2023. The individual, whose nationality was not disclosed, was reportedly offered a deal by Castillo to provide immigration paperwork that would permit them to remain in the United States in exchange for the payment.

Castillo, a U.S. Border Patrol Agent at the time, made false entries in the individual’s immigration file and printed the fraudulent document. However, his plan was foiled when agents apprehended him in possession of the false documentation shortly after he met with the individual.

On February 1, 2024, Castillo pled guilty to one count of bribery of a public official. The charge carries significant penalties, and the court’s decision reflects the severity of the crime.

U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza stated, “A federal officer who sells his office for personal gain shatters public trust in government officials. Unfortunately, Castillo’s crime unfairly tarnishes the honest officers who serve the public with dedication day in and day out. We will eagerly hold officers like Castillo accountable.”

Special Agent in Charge John Morales of the FBI El Paso Field Office added, “Fernando Castillo engaged in conduct that betrayed the oath he took to faithfully serve the citizens of the United States of America. His behavior should not take away from the outstanding work done each day by the vast majority of law enforcement professionals at U.S. Border Patrol. The FBI encourages the public to continue to support our active and ongoing efforts to root out public corruption by reporting corrupt activity to the FBI El Paso Field Office at (915) 832-5000.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney John Johnston prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Department of Homeland Security-Office of Inspector General, and United States Customs and Border Protection-Office of Professional Responsibility.

Castillo was sentenced to 18 months in prison, one year of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. His sentence serves as a stern reminder of the consequences of public corruption and the importance of upholding the integrity of government officials.