The family of Atianna Washington, a young woman tragically killed in a crash involving the former head of the Dallas Police Association, is voicing their concerns following his guilty plea last Friday. Jaime Castro, the former president of the Dallas Police Association, admitted to making a false statement concerning the fatal collision that claimed Washington’s life.
Castro pleaded guilty to one count of providing misleading information to law enforcement in relation to the March 15, 2025, incident. He falsely claimed that his girlfriend was the driver of the vehicle involved in the accident and denied that she had consumed any alcohol before the crash.
His girlfriend, Angela Valles, also confessed to making a false statement about being behind the wheel that night. Under the terms of his plea agreement, Castro is required to surrender his peace officer license, enroll in DWI classes, pay a fine, and serve a year on probation for the Class B misdemeanor.
Washington was struck while attempting to cross Northwest Highway, and at the time of the incident, Castro was a senior corporal with the Dallas Police Department, listed as a passenger in the vehicle involved.
Footage from the scene captured Castro interacting with other officers and shaking hands, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Following the incident, Castro was placed on administrative leave, and an internal affairs investigation was launched after an attorney for Washington’s family began probing into the case’s details. After serving with the department since 1998, Castro announced his retirement in January and stepped down as the police union’s president.
Mindi Crapo, Washington’s mother, expressed her deep sorrow, recalling her daughter’s warmth and kindness. She feels that the recent guilty plea is a significant step toward achieving justice. “I felt vindicated that what we felt the entire time was actually true,” she stated. “It makes me feel strong because I promised my daughter I wouldn’t stop until I got her justice.”
Crapo emphasized her commitment to seeking justice not only for her daughter but also for her grandson, who was just four years old when Washington lost her life. Attorney James Roberts, representing the family, noted discrepancies in the initial narrative surrounding the crash, raising concerns about Castro’s potential intoxication at the time.
The Dallas County District Attorney has indicated that the original investigation was incomplete, leaving open the possibility of further criminal liability. Washington’s family has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against both Castro and Valles, alleging that law enforcement failed to conduct a thorough investigation.
Roberts mentioned that they are awaiting the official serving of the lawsuit to Castro and Valles, optimistic that the process will proceed swiftly, allowing them their day in court.
