CHULA VISTA, Calif. — A 19-year-old, James Mumper Jr., has been handed a 12-year prison sentence in connection to the tragic death of 17-year-old Mateo Alexander Castillo at a house party in Chula Vista in 2022. The sentencing, which took place in Chula Vista court, included charges of voluntary manslaughter, use of a deadly weapon, and other related offenses.
San Diego District Attorney Stephan expressed condolences for the family’s loss due to this senseless act of violence. He added that they hope the family can find some solace in the justice served through this prosecution.
Reports from 2022 indicated that nearly 60 individuals were present at the large house gathering, situated on the 900 block of Rigley Street in Chula Vista’s Sunbow neighborhood. Prior to his sentencing, Mumper Jr. listened to victim impact statements from Castillo’s family members.
In August, Mumper Jr. entered a guilty plea to the charges. Following an investigation into the events at the house party, a warrant for his arrest was issued, leading to his apprehension by U.S. Marshals in December 2022.
As part of his sentence, Mumper Jr. will receive credit for 350 days already served.
