The Puerto Rico Court of Appeals ruled on April 14, 2026, in the case of David Diaz Castro v. Institución Correccional Bayamón 501, affirming the decision regarding Diaz Castro's eligibility for parole. This ruling impacts inmates serving lengthy sentences for serious crimes, as it clarifies the criteria for being considered for parole under Puerto Rican law.
David Diaz Castro, a member of the correctional population, filed for a judicial review of a decision made by the Division of Administrative Remedies of the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. The court's ruling affects not only Diaz Castro but also others in similar situations who are seeking parole after serving a significant portion of their sentences.
Background
The dispute began when Diaz Castro submitted a request for administrative remedy on December 8, 2025. He sought to be referred to the Parole Board, believing he had met the necessary time requirements for consideration. The Division of Remedies responded on December 23, 2025, stating that he would not be eligible for referral until he had served a minimum of his sentence, which was set for 2028.
Diaz Castro was sentenced to a total of 99 years for first-degree murder and additional sentences for other crimes. He argued that he should be eligible for parole consideration after serving 12 years, based on the regulations governing parole eligibility for inmates with indeterminate sentences. After his request for reconsideration was denied, he appealed the decision, leading to the court's ruling.
The Ruling
The court, led by Judge Hernández Sánchez and joined by Judges Rivera Torres and Marrero Guerrero, confirmed the lower court's decision. The court stated, "the determination administrative of fixing the year 2028 as the date in which [Diaz Castro] fulfills the minimum of his sentence — and, therefore, the moment in which his referral proceeds — is reasonable and consonant with the applicable law." This ruling emphasizes the importance of adhering to established legal frameworks when determining parole eligibility.
The court highlighted that the regulations specify that individuals sentenced for first-degree murder must serve at least 25 years before being eligible for parole consideration. Since Diaz Castro was sentenced to 99 years, he must wait until 2028, confirming the Division of Remedies' decision.
Impact
This ruling has significant implications for inmates in Puerto Rico who are serving lengthy sentences for serious offenses. It reinforces the legal standards that govern parole eligibility and clarifies the timeline for inmates seeking early release. By upholding the Division of Remedies' decision, the court has established a precedent that emphasizes the importance of following established guidelines regarding parole.
Moreover, the ruling serves as a reminder to inmates and their advocates about the complexities of the parole process. It underscores the necessity for individuals to understand the specific requirements of their sentences and the regulations that govern their eligibility for parole.
What's Next
Diaz Castro's case could potentially be appealed to a higher court, but details were not available in the court filing regarding any plans for further legal action. There may be related cases pending that involve similar issues of parole eligibility for inmates serving long sentences.