March 27, 2025 - Former UFC champion Cain Velasquez was sentenced to five years in prison on Monday for a 2022 shooting incident in which he chased the man accused of molesting his son. Velasquez pled no contest to attempted murder, felony assault, and related gun charges in August, with the district attorney describing the event as a “vigilante shooting spree.” He will receive credit for time already served. In February 2022, Velasquez fired multiple shots at a truck carrying 46-year-old Harry Goularte, who faces felony child molestation charges. Velasquez’s defense attorney called the outcome “bittersweet,” acknowledging Velasquez’s accountability.
Goularte had been arrested for the sexual assault of a 4-year-old at his family’s daycare just days before the shooting but was released without bail. Velasquez shot at Goularte’s truck during a high-speed chase that lasted 11 miles, injuring Goularte’s stepfather. Velasquez is also suing Goularte and his family’s daycare for negligence and sexual battery. Reflecting on the incident, Velasquez admitted to his dangerous actions and emphasized the importance of handling such situations through the law. District Attorney Jeff Rosen condemned the act, stating it endangered innocent people in the community.