Cain Velasquez, Former UFC Champion, Released on Parole after Attempted Murder Sentence
Cain Velasquez, the former UFC Heavyweight Champion, has been released on parole after serving 11 months of a prison sentence for attempted murder. The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation confirmed his release on Sunday. Velasquez, who is now 43 years old, faced legal repercussions following a violent incident tied to allegations against a daycare worker.
Circumstances Surrounding Velasquez’s Arrest
In February 2022, Velasquez was taken into custody for attempting to shoot Harry Goularte Jr. Goularte was accused of molesting Velasquez’s 4-year-old son. He had been arrested on February 23, 2022, on charges of engaging in lewd acts with a minor under 14 years old. After his arrest, he was released on bail but was required to wear a GPS ankle monitor.
On the day of the attempted shooting, Velasquez pursued Goularte’s vehicle, which was occupied by his stepfather and mother, Patricia Goularte, who operated the daycare that Velasquez’s son attended. Velasquez struck the car with his truck and fired shots, which accidentally hit Paul Bender, Goularte’s stepfather, causing non-life-threatening injuries.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Following his arrest, Velasquez initially pleaded not guilty but later opted for a no contest plea in 2024. He was charged with several offenses, including:
- Attempted first-degree murder
- Shooting at a motor vehicle
- Assault with a firearm
- Discharging a firearm from a vehicle
In March 2025, he received a sentence of five years in prison and four years of supervised probation. However, he was credited for time served while in county jail and under house arrest, allowing him parole eligibility to be moved up to February 2026.
Upcoming Court Appearances
Velasquez is scheduled for a court appearance on June 3 to discuss restitution owed to Paul Bender and the Goularte family. Meanwhile, Goularte’s legal issues are still pending, with a trial setting conference planned for April 15 to establish a trial date.
Civil Case Against Goularte and Family
In addition to the criminal charges, Velasquez and his family have filed a civil lawsuit against Harry Goularte, Patricia Goularte, and Paul Bender. The suit claims negligence on the part of Bender and Patricia for their roles at the daycare where the alleged assaults took place. They are also accused of aiding Goularte in concealing his alleged crimes. A jury trial for this civil case is set for November 9, 2024.
Velasquez’s UFC Legacy
Cain Velasquez achieved prominence in mixed martial arts after winning the UFC Heavyweight Championship by defeating Brock Lesnar in 2010. Over his career, he captured two heavyweight titles and retired in 2019 with an impressive record of 17 wins and 3 losses. His recent legal troubles have overshadowed his accolades, leading to significant media attention and public interest.
