Cain Velasquez, former UFC heavyweight champion, entered a no-contest plea on Friday, resolving a case that initially saw him facing severe charges, including premeditated attempted murder, felony assault, and related gun offenses. This plea deal, made before Judge Arthur Bocanegra and with his attorney, Renee Hessling, has spared Velasquez a mandatory life sentence with the possibility of parole.
As part of the plea agreement, the premeditated aspect of the charges was dropped, leaving his punishment at the judge’s discretion. The sentencing could range from probation and time served to a life sentence, though the latter is considered unlikely under the terms of the deal. A date for Velasquez’s sentencing has not yet been set, but the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s office has confirmed that he will face prison time.
The case dates back to February 2022, when Velasquez pursued a high-speed chase for 11 miles, targeting a vehicle carrying Harry Goularte, who was accused of molesting Velasquez’s son at a daycare. During the chase, Velasquez fired multiple rounds from a .40-caliber handgun at the vehicle, injuring Goularte’s stepfather, Paul Bender, who sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
Following the incident, Velasquez was arrested without resistance and faced multiple charges. He spent eight months in jail before being granted bail. Investigations revealed searches on his phone related to “sexual assault cases where victims’ families fight back” and “sexual assault cases where victim families retaliate.” Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen commented, saying Velasquez’s actions endangered innocent bystanders, including children, and that he effectively took justice into his own hands.
While Velasquez’s case has drawn significant public support—especially from those who sympathize with his emotional motives—his actions have been criticized for recklessly jeopardizing the safety of others. Legal experts stress that vigilante justice is dangerous, reminding the public that the judicial system is in place to handle such allegations.
Meanwhile, Harry Goularte, despite facing felony child molestation charges, remains free on bail. His release has been met with public backlash, adding further complexity to an already controversial case.
The case has sparked discussions about bail reform, particularly in cases involving alleged violent crimes against children. Velasquez’s actions highlight the emotional weight of family protection but also underscore the importance of maintaining a functioning legal system.
As Velasquez awaits his sentencing, the court’s decision will likely weigh his emotional motivations against the necessity of upholding the law. This case will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on Velasquez’s legacy, as both a UFC champion and a father whose desperate actions placed him at odds with the law.
