The former UFC heavyweight champion, Cain Velasquez, recently addressed his supporters with a deeply personal message following his release from prison. He expressed profound gratitude for the unwavering support he received during a harrowing ordeal, and a palpable sense of relief at being reunited with his family.
Velasquez’s imprisonment stemmed from a desperate act of pursuit in February 2022. Discovering allegations that Harry Goularte Jr., a daycare employee, had harmed his four-year-old son, Velasquez embarked on a relentless chase to confront the accused.
That pursuit unfolded as an eleven-mile high-speed chase, culminating in Velasquez ramming Goularte’s vehicle and discharging a firearm, injuring Goularte’s stepfather. The ensuing legal battle led to a no-contest plea in 2024 on charges including attempted murder and assault with a deadly weapon.
Despite prosecutors seeking a sentence of thirty years to life, Velasquez received a five-year term, benefiting from credit for the three years he’d already served in pre-trial detention. His early release was ultimately secured through active participation in rehabilitative programs.
In a recently shared video statement, Velasquez spoke candidly about the challenges of readjusting to life outside of prison walls. He emphasized the simple, yet profound, joy of being present for his children and rebuilding a normal family life.
“Now that it’s been a couple weeks since my release, I’ve had some time to kind of get back into things, get back into a normal way of life… Being at home with the family, being there for my kids,” Velasquez shared, his voice filled with emotion.
He extended heartfelt thanks to those who offered words of encouragement, acknowledging that their support sustained him and his family throughout the ordeal. “Your words of inspiration and encouragement constantly just lifted me up, myself and my family… It’s good to be out,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the legal proceedings against Harry Goularte Jr. continue to unfold. He has pleaded not guilty to charges of felony lewd acts with a minor and remains on supervised release, monitored by GPS.
A trial-setting hearing is scheduled for April 15th, more than four years after the initial allegations surfaced. The wheels of justice turn slowly, even in the most agonizing of cases.
Beyond the criminal proceedings, Velasquez and his family have initiated a civil lawsuit against Goularte and his relatives, seeking accountability for the alleged abuse and negligence within the daycare facility.
