Former Dallas Police Union Head Pleads Guilty After Lying About Fatal Crash

Jaime Castro must surrender police license, take DWI classes, and serve probation as part of plea deal.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 11:05pm

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Jaime Castro, the former president of the Dallas Police Association, has pleaded guilty to making a false statement to police about a 2025 traffic crash that killed 25-year-old Atianna Washington. As part of the plea agreement, Castro will surrender his peace officer license, complete DWI education classes, pay a fine, and serve one year of probation.

Why it matters

This case highlights issues around transparency and accountability in police investigations, especially when the suspect is a law enforcement official. The victim's family has also filed a wrongful death lawsuit, seeking further answers and justice.

The details

According to the Dallas County District Attorney's Office, Castro pleaded guilty to lying about who was driving the vehicle involved in the fatal crash and whether his girlfriend had consumed alcohol. The original police investigation was deemed "incomplete" by the DA's office, though the details of any potential further criminal liability remain unclear.

  • The fatal crash occurred on March 15, 2025.
  • Castro pleaded guilty on March 13, 2026.

The players

Jaime Castro

The former president of the Dallas Police Association who pleaded guilty to making a false statement to police about a fatal 2025 crash.

Atianna Washington

The 25-year-old woman who was killed in the 2025 traffic crash.

James Roberts

The attorney representing Atianna Washington's family in a wrongful death lawsuit.

John Creuzot

The Dallas County Criminal District Attorney who stated the original police investigation was "incomplete."

Chief Comeaux

The current Dallas Police Department chief who has worked to address this incident.

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What they’re saying

“Our focus remains on obtaining accountability for the death of Atianna Washington and justice for her family. Mr. Castro has now pleaded guilty to providing a false statement to law enforcement about who was driving the vehicle involved in this fatal crash.”

— James Roberts, Attorney for Washington family

“This guilty plea is the result of a thorough investigation by my office's Public Integrity Unit based on the facts available to us. Per DPD policy, it appears the investigation at the scene was incomplete.”

— John Creuzot, Dallas County Criminal District Attorney

What’s next

The Washington family's wrongful death lawsuit against Castro and his girlfriend is expected to proceed in court soon, as the family continues seeking answers and accountability.

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of thorough, impartial investigations by law enforcement, even when the suspect is a fellow officer. It also highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in police misconduct cases to ensure justice for victims and their families.