Former 2-time UFC Heavyweight Champion and ex-WWE wrestler Cain Velasquez has been sentenced to 5 years in prison, minus time served, for his involvement in a 2022 shooting incident. The sentencing at Santa Clara County Hall of Justice concluded a highly charged case that involved attempted murder, child molestation allegations, and deeply personal impact statements.
The Sentencing: A Balance of Justice and Circumstance
The courtroom, packed with 70 spectators, witnessed a complex sentencing hearing. Prosecutors sought a 30-years-to-life sentence, while the defense argued for no prison time. Ultimately, Judge Arthur Bocanegra handed down a 5-year sentence after considering various factors, including impact statements from Velasquez, his family, the shooting target Harry Goularte, and his family.
Judge Bocanegra cited Velasquez’s community standing and public support as influential factors in his decision, acknowledging the outpouring of sympathy and understanding from many who saw Velasquez’s actions as driven by a father’s protective instinct.
The Incident: A High-Speed Chase and Gunfire
The charges stemmed from a February 2022 incident where Velasquez engaged in a high-speed chase, firing a handgun at a vehicle carrying Harry Goularte and his family. Goularte was accused of repeatedly molesting Velasquez’s then-four-year-old son. The gunfire struck Goularte’s stepfather, Paul Bender, injuring his arm.
The incident sparked a heated debate about vigilantism and the lengths a parent would go to protect their child. The Goularte family, meanwhile, expressed fear for their safety.
Velasquez’s Perspective: Acknowledgment and Forgiveness
In an interview before his sentencing, Velasquez acknowledged his actions and expressed a willingness to face the consequences. “What I did was not correct,” Velasquez said. “I understand that. I paid, and I’ll pay whatever else as far as what I have to do to pay all that back. I don’t think I can pay it back, but I can always learn from my mistakes and help others.”
He also emphasized the importance of open communication with children and addressing issues of abuse. Notably, he expressed forgiveness toward the Goularte family, stating, “I wish them healing in the best way, whatever that is. I wish that for them. I understand that they have traumas, as well. It’s not right to spread it – no. I’m glad they themselves have stopped because they can’t practice any more as far as daycare. With my own time, I’ve forgiven them and everything else, and I know my kids are great.”
The Legal Aftermath: Multiple Charges and Ongoing Cases
Velasquez faced multiple charges, including attempted murder, shooting at a vehicle, assault with a firearm and deadly weapon, and carrying a loaded firearm with intent to commit a felony.
Harry Goularte, who has pleaded not guilty to charges of lewd acts with a minor, awaits trial. A separate civil lawsuit has been filed by the Velasquez family against the Goularte family and their associated businesses, and the daycare run by Goularte’s mother has been shut down.
The case of Cain Velasquez is a complex tapestry of justice, vengeance, and parental love. It highlights the difficult choices individuals face when confronted with deeply personal and traumatic situations. His sentencing marks the end of one chapter, but the legal and emotional ramifications of this incident will continue to unfold.
