Over the course of just 15 minutes, the man convicted of the 2023 robbery of the Chadron Federal Credit Union was sentenced in Tuesday afternoon’s final hearing presented to Dawes County District Court.
At 1:58 p.m. Tuesday, Judge Travis O’Gorman heard the final arguments of the state prosecution and the defense of 31-year-old Robert Castellon Jr. before delivering sentencing.
The prosecuting attorney began by recalling the events of May 12, 2023. The prosecution explained that the effects of Castellon’s actions and decision were far-reaching: the community of Chadron, local banks – including the Chadron Federal Credit Union and their staff – and the employees working in the institution all experienced a traumatic event. The prosecution specifically highlighted the teller that was threatened, describing the event as a moment she will “remember the rest of her life”. Ultimately, the prosecution discerned that a lengthy time in prison was necessary and that anything less would “promote disrespect for the law.”
The defense earnestly presented Castellon – who pleaded guilty to the Class II felony – as a young man presented with few options who was “pushed by his family” and that the criminal act was “not in his character; not in his nature”. The defense supported that argument with a recount of minor violations in Castellon’s criminal history and highlighted his character as the father of seven children. The defense also addressed that on the day the crime was committed, Castellon was hesitant to follow through – driving around the block several times before entering the building and claiming the weapon used looked like a “toy gun”.
When given the opportunity to speak for himself, Castellon had few words but emphasized that he wanted to “make amends with this community”. “It’s not like taking candy from a baby. And I understand that… I’m sorry. That’s it,” said Castellon in closing.
When final arguments had been heard, Judge O’Gorman was left to hand down sentencing. Before delivering his final verdict, O’Gorman appeared to agree on many degrees with the prosecution, calling the act a “horrible crime” that “put the fear of God” into those directly affected by Castellon’s actions.
In Nebraska, robbery is considered a Class II Felony with prison sentences ranging between a minimum of 1 year and a maximum of 50. Robert L Castellon Jr. was sentenced to no less than 25 years and no more than 35 years in prison. As a result, Castellon will be placed in the custody of the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services.
