Former UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez has been sentenced to five years in prison after pleading no contest to attempted murder. The sentencing occurred at the Santa Clara County Hall of Justice in San Jose, California, marking the culmination of a three-year legal saga.
Velasquez, 42, was involved in a high-profile incident in February 2022, where he engaged in a high-speed car chase and fired multiple shots at a vehicle carrying Harry Goularte, a man accused of molesting Velasquez’s then four-year-old son.
The incident occurred after Goularte was arrested and released without bail for allegedly molesting a child at a daycare owned by his family.
Velasquez, in a bid to confront Goularte, chased his vehicle for approximately 11 miles, firing multiple rounds from a 40-caliber handgun. Although Goularte was uninjured, his stepfather, Paul Bender, was shot and injured during the chase.
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Plea and Sentencing
Velasquez pleaded no contest to felony attempted murder, assault, and weapons charges in August 2024. This plea was part of a deal that dropped premeditated murder charges, which could have resulted in a life sentence.
During the sentence, Velasquez expressed remorse for his actions, stating that he understood the gravity of his mistakes and was willing to accept the consequences. He stated, “I am truly sorry…My actions were reckless. ashamed handful for I handled out of this, I wish for my, the Goularte and the community,” as reported by KRON 4.
Prosecutors sought a sentence of 30 years to life, while the defense argued for no prison time, citing Velasquez’s character and the extraordinary circumstances of the case.
Reaction from the MMA Community and Legal Team
The MMA community has shown support for Velasquez, with many acknowledging the situation’s complexities. His defense attorney, Renne Hessling, described the outcome as “bittersweet,” noting that while they had hoped to avoid prison time, Velasquez’s courage and accountability were recognized by the court.
Velasquez has also been praised for taking responsibility for his actions and acknowledging the danger he posed to innocent bystanders.
Future Proceedings
Harry Gaularte, the man accused of molesting Velasquez’s son, has pleaded not guilty to charges of lewd acts with a minor and is scheduled for trial on June 2, 2025. Velasquez has also filed a lawsuit against Goularte and his family’s daycare for negligence and sexual battery.
Emotional Courtroom Scene
The courtroom was packed during the sentence, with emotional reactions from both sides. Velasquez read a statement expressing his agreement with the judge’s decision and apologized for his reckless actions. The judge, Arthur Bocanegra, reportedly has tears in his eyes while delivering the sentence, highlighting the emotional impact of the case.