Former UFC champion Cain Velasquez was sentenced to five years in prison on March 24, 2025, for attempted murder stemming from a shooting incident that took place in 2022. The court proceedings revealed the tense circumstances surrounding the case, involving a high-speed chase and a shooting targeting a man accused of molesting Velasquez's young child.
In a San Jose courtroom, Superior Court Judge Arthur Bocanegra handed down the sentence in a case that has captured public attention. Velasquez, 42, pleaded no contest to various charges last year, including attempted murder. The incident in question occurred on February 28, 2022, when Velasquez pursued Harry Goularte, the man he believed had molested his four-year-old son.
Velasquez, during the chase, fired multiple rounds from a .40 caliber handgun at Goularte's vehicle, ultimately striking Goularte's stepfather, Paul Bender, instead. Bender sustained significant injuries to his arm and torso. Despite Goularte being unharmed, the incident has raised critical discussions about vigilantism, parental instincts, and the consequences of taking the law into one's own hands.
Throughout the sentencing, Velasquez expressed deep remorse for his actions. He stated, “I am truly sorry. My actions were reckless. I am ashamed and regretful for how I handled myself.” In a recent podcast conversation with former teammate Kyle Kingsbury, Velasquez acknowledged the gravity of his decisions, saying, “From what I can say as far as myself, the way that I handled things, that was not the way to do it.” His words resonated with many who followed the case closely.
The case unfolded dramatically, beginning with Velasquez’s intentions to confront Goularte, who was already facing charges of lewd acts with a minor, set to go to trial on June 2, 2025. Velasquez had been free on a $1 million bail prior to his sentencing. The prosecutor, Deputy District Attorney Aaron French, sought a much harsher penalty, aiming for a 30 years-to-life sentence, reflecting the serious nature of the crime and the endangerment of innocent bystanders during the chase and shooting.
The courtroom was filled with supporters from both sides during the sentencing. Bender and his family made emotional impact statements, with Bender detailing the physical and emotional scars he will carry due to the shooting. “I would have bled out and I would not be standing before you today,” he stated, appealing for the maximum sentence against Velasquez.
As the defense attorney, Renee Hessling, argued for probation instead of prison time, she stated, “This is a difficult case. Under Marci’s Law, (Velasquez’s) family is also considered victims. There are victims on both sides of this.” Her plea focused on Velasquez’s lack of prior criminal history and the anguish he faced as a father, having reacted impulsively to protect his child.
In the aftermath of the sentencing, Velasquez will receive credit for the time he has already served, which totals approximately three years, thus potentially reducing his time in custody to two years or less. The judge also mandated that Velasquez comply with a protective order preventing any future contact with the Goularte family.
As discussion continues about the implications of Velasquez's case, it invites deeper reflection on parental rights, the morality of vigilante justice, and the legal ramifications of reacting out of despair and panic. Throughout the world of combat sports, Velasquez is recognized not just for his achievements inside the octagon, but now also for this tragic turn in his life.
In the final statements during his sentencing, Velasquez reiterated his regret while wishing for healing for all involved, saying, “Out of all this, I wish safe healing for my family, the Goulartes, and the community.” His acknowledgment of the situation's complexity suggests a willingness to learn from his mistakes, offering a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by parents when protective instincts clash with the law. This more profound reflection may resonate with many, as they navigate their own experiences with justice and morality.
