Former UFC Champion Cain Velasquez Sentenced to Five Years in Prison
San Jose, CA – Ex-UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez has received a five-year prison sentence following a 2022 shooting incident. The 42-year-old former mixed martial arts star previously entered a no contest plea to felony charges of attempted manslaughter, assault, and weapons violations after allegedly discharging a firearm at a vehicle occupied by a man accused of sexually abusing his son. This legal outcome marks a significant development in the case that has garnered widespread attention.
Details of the Sentencing and Legal Proceedings
The event transpired in February 2022, leading to Velasquez’s immediate arrest and detention at the Santa Clara County jail in California. He was initially charged with attempted first-degree murder, but was later released under house arrest in November of the same year. During sentencing, the judge granted Velasquez credit for 1,283 days already served, effectively reducing his remaining time behind bars to less than two years.
The sentencing hearing took place in a Santa Clara County court located in San Jose, California. Renee M. Hessling, Velasquez’s legal representative, issued a statement defending her client’s character after the proceedings concluded.
Defense Statement and Character Testimony
“Today’s outcome presents a mix of emotions – we had hoped Mr. Velasquez would remain free from incarceration,” Hessling stated. “However, the fundamental truth remains: Cain Velasquez is an honorable individual, a devoted parent, and a respected member of his community.”
“The ordeal he and his family have endured has been an unimaginable nightmare, undeserved and profoundly impactful. Throughout this challenging period, Cain has demonstrated immense bravery and moral fortitude. He has acknowledged accountability for his actions and accepted the legal consequences.”
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“The sentence issued today reflects the intricate nature of the circumstances and recognizes the individual beyond the sensational headlines. Upon his release, he will continue to serve as a role model – protecting, contributing to, and caring for those around him,” she concluded.
Cain Velasquez’s MMA Legacy and the Incident’s Background
Velasquez, an icon in the world of mixed martial arts, reached the pinnacle of his career in 2010 with a victory over Brock Lesnar, claiming the UFC heavyweight championship title. He retired from professional fighting in 2019. The 2022 shooting accusation came approximately three years after his retirement. The target of the shooting was Harry Goularte, who was in a pickup truck and is accused of molesting Velasquez’s then four-year-old son at a daycare facility.
UFC Support and Ongoing Related Case
The UFC organization publicly expressed support for Velasquez. Dana White, the UFC president, provided a character reference to the court during Velasquez’s case deliberations.
Goularte is scheduled to face a criminal trial commencing on June 2, facing a felony charge of lewd acts with a minor. He has entered a plea of not guilty to the charge.