Former UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez has apologized for his actions in court prior to being sentenced to five years in prison. This sentencing follows his no-contest plea to attempted murder charges.
Velasquez, who was initially arrested in February 2022, was given the opportunity to speak before Judge Arthur Bocanegra delivered the sentence. The charges against Velasquez arose from an incident where he engaged in an 11-mile high-speed pursuit, discharging a handgun at a vehicle occupied by Harry Goularte. Goularte is accused of molesting Velasquez`s young son at a daycare facility owned by Goularte`s mother.
During the chase, a bullet struck Paul Bender, Goularte`s stepfather. Bender sustained injuries that were not life-threatening. Velasquez was apprehended at the scene without further incident. Addressing the court, Velasquez expressed regret for his behavior.
“I am truly sorry,” Velasquez stated, according to multiple reports. “My actions were irresponsible and extremely dangerous. I am ashamed and deeply regretful of how I conducted myself on the day of this incident.”
He continued, expressing wishes for healing: “I wish for safe healing for my family, and to the Goularte family, I wish safe healing, and to the community, I wish safe healing.”
The prosecution had sought a sentence ranging from 30 years to life imprisonment for Velasquez. In contrast, his defense attorneys argued for a sentence of time served along with probation.
Ultimately, Judge Bocanegra opted for a less severe punishment. While acknowledging the necessity for Velasquez to be held accountable for his crime, the judge also recognized the victimization of Velasquez`s family due to the alleged child molestation case involving his son.
Although sentenced to five years, Velasquez will receive credit for 1,283 days already served. This credit includes his previous time in jail and time spent under house arrest.
It is anticipated that Velasquez will serve less than two years in prison, possibly even less, depending on potential reductions for good conduct.
In the courtroom, Velasquez was supported by friends and family. He was granted a moment with his wife and children before being taken into custody to commence his sentence.
