Man Found Guilty of Murder, Raped Corpse

Zarbab Ali has been convicted of first-degree murder in the killing of his estranged wife, Rachel Castillo. The Ventura County jury reached its verdict this month, determining Ali used a deadly weapon and acted with premeditation by lying in wait. He faces a mandatory life sentence, with sentencing scheduled for January 2026. Castillo's body was discovered three years ago, leading to Ali's arrest and subsequent confession.

During the trial, prosecutors played a recording of Ali's confession, in which he detailed the brutal murder. He admitted to stabbing Castillo multiple times after waiting for her in her apartment. Disturbingly, Ali also confessed to digging up Castillo's body after burying it and committing a sexual assault. He explained his actions by stating he blamed her for his problems and wanted to confirm he was a "monster."

Ali also testified, admitting he killed Castillo but offering a different motive, citing her desire for a divorce and a new relationship. He claimed his father advised him to look out for himself, which he interpreted as needing to eliminate Castillo. The jury found Ali not guilty of murder for financial gain, and he previously pleaded guilty to felony sexual contact with human remains.