LAS VEGAS, Nevada – Former New Haven police officer Robert Ferraro has been sentenced to prison for his involvement in a fatal crash that resulted in the death of fellow officer Joshua Castellano. Ferraro, who was charged with reckless driving and driving under the influence resulting in death, received the low end of the sentencing range, making him eligible for parole before serving two years depending on his behavior.
Ferraro’s attorney, Grasso, expressed relief at the sentencing outcome, stating that it was the best possible result considering the circumstances. He also mentioned that Ferraro is likely to be housed in a work camp in the Nevada desert, where he will be assigned to various tasks such as road work and fire mitigation.
The tragic incident took place on September 17, 2021, when Ferraro, then 34, crashed a Rolls-Royce Cullinan at a high rate of speed, resulting in the ejection and subsequent death of Castellano. Ferraro, who showed signs of impairment at the scene, initially refused to take any standardized field sobriety tests.
The consequences of the crash were significant, leading to Ferraro’s resignation from the New Haven Police Department and efforts to decertify him as a police officer. Additionally, Ferraro’s fellow officers involved in the crash were not subjected to the same professional consequences as Ferraro.
Despite the tragedy, Ferraro’s legal team expressed his remorse and acknowledgment of the impact of his actions. The sentencing, along with the repercussions for his former colleagues, serves as a sobering reminder of the serious and far-reaching consequences of driving under the influence resulting in a tragic loss of life. Castellano’s death has left a lasting impact on his community and beyond.