The Neoliberal Round Podcast

Today we’re bringing you a critical update on John Anthony Castro.In November 2025, Castro filed an emergency motion for mistrial alleging that the government concealed criminal immunity agreements with witnesses — including a deal granted to Linda Rivera — and presented stipulations that he and his attorneys never agreed to.Here’s what changed the landscape.In the government’s response, filed on Thanksgiving, prosecutor Lauren Murphy conceded that Castro’s Sixth Amendment rights were violated because he was not given the opportunity to discuss stipulations with witnesses. The government also acknowledged that evidence had been suppressed.However, in a 54-page response, the government did not address the alleged criminal immunity deal.Castro’s legal team argues that by failing to respond, prosecutors forfeited the issue.Despite these concessions, the Fifth Circuit denied Castro’s motion for release on December 8.Castro has since filed a writ of mandamus seeking to compel court action. His attorneys are preparing an expedited motion for default ruling, arguing that the government’s admissions should result in immediate relief.Castro has described himself as a political prisoner, asserting that his continued imprisonment persists despite constitutional violations being acknowledged on the record.Through it all, he says he remains hopeful and prayerful.We will continue to monitor this case closely.Available in The Neoliberal Journals at https://theneoliberal.com