The former UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez recently entered a no contest plea to felony attempted murder, assault, and multiple weapons charges in a California court. This plea was made in connection to a disturbing incident that occurred in February 2022. Velasquez was involved in a high-speed car chase, during which he allegedly shot several rounds at a man accused of molesting his son. However, instead of hitting the intended victim, Velasquez ended up injuring the man’s stepfather. This reckless act of violence has caused shockwaves throughout the MMA community.
Velasquez’s plea was made before Judge Arthur Bocanegra at the Santa Clara County Hall of Justice. Initially scheduled to go to trial for attempted murder, Velasquez’s decision to enter a plea of no contest has resulted in a lighter sentence. While a sentencing hearing is set for Oct. 18, the actual sentencing date is yet to be determined. By making this plea, Velasquez has managed to avoid facing premeditated murder charges, which would have carried a mandatory life sentence with the possibility of parole.
District Attorney Jeff Rosen expressed grave concern over Velasquez’s actions, stating that the former champion took it upon himself to act as judge, jury, and executioner. Rosen emphasized the danger that Velasquez’s actions posed to innocent bystanders, including children and their parents, who could have been harmed during the high-speed car chase. The district attorney urged for trust in law enforcement to carry out justice, rather than individuals taking matters into their own hands.
The Aftermath
Following the car chase, Velasquez was promptly arrested and later released on bail as he awaited trial. The man accused of molesting Velasquez’s son, Harry Goularte, continues to face child molestation charges. The county probation department will assess the severity of the incident, taking into account Velasquez’s lack of a criminal record and the underlying sexual abuse case involving his son. This evaluation will influence the sentencing recommendation that will be presented in the coming months.
The case of Cain Velasquez serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of vigilante justice. Velasquez’s actions have not only put lives at risk but have also tarnished his reputation as a former UFC champion. As the legal proceedings continue, it is important to reflect on the implications of such reckless behavior and the importance of allowing due process to take its course.
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