Former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) champion Cain Velasquez has been sentenced to five years in prison for his involvement in a shooting incident that occurred in 2022. This incident unfolded when Velasquez pursued the man accused of molesting his son. The sentencing took place in Santa Clara County, California, on Monday, following Velasquez’s no contest plea to charges of attempted murder, felony assault, and other related gun offenses last August, which the District Attorney’s Office described as a “vigilante shooting spree.” He will receive credit for the time already served.
On February 28, 2022, the two-time UFC heavyweight champion fired a gun multiple times at a truck carrying three individuals, including Harry Goularte, the 46-year-old man facing felony child molestation charges. According to the District Attorney’s Office, this incident was a direct response to Goularte's previous arrest for the alleged sexual assault of a four-year-old child at a daycare facility owned by his family. Remarkably, Goularte was released on bail just days after his arrest. Officials noted he was under house arrest and was en route to retrieve an electronic monitoring bracelet when Velasquez initiated his attack.
During the chaotic car chase that spanned 17.7 km (11 miles), Velasquez shot at Goularte’s vehicle. Fortunately, Goularte sustained no injuries; however, his stepfather, who was driving the truck, was struck twice during the exchange. In a podcast appearance with his former teammate Kyle Kingsbury, Velasquez reflected on his actions, admitting that his approach to the situation was “not the way to do it.” He emphasized the importance of adhering to the law, stating, “We cannot put the law in our own hands.” Velasquez acknowledged the danger his actions posed not only to those involved but also to innocent bystanders.
In a poignant moment, Velasquez underscored the need for open dialogues with children regarding acceptable behavior, emphasizing the importance of listening to their concerns. “One man’s decision to take the law into his own hands left an innocent man wounded and endangered schoolchildren, teachers, and many others in our community,” stated District Attorney Jeff Rosen. He urged individuals seeking justice in Santa Clara County to pursue lawful means, suggesting they “apply for a badge.”
Cain Velasquez first made history as the UFC heavyweight champion on October 23, 2010, by defeating the then-champion Brock Lesnar at UFC 121. His last professional fight took place against Francis Ngannou on February 18, 2019, marking the end of his illustrious career in mixed martial arts.
