Former UFC Champion Cain Velasquez Released on Parole After Attempted Murder Conviction

Velasquez's case has sparked a national debate on the limits of parental protection and the dangers of vigilantism.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Former UFC Heavyweight Champion Cain Velasquez has been released on parole after serving 11 months in prison for attempted murder. His case, stemming from a 2022 shooting incident targeting a man accused of abusing his son, has ignited a national conversation about the balance between parental rights and the rule of law.

Why it matters

The Velasquez case highlights a growing trend of individuals taking matters into their own hands when they perceive failures within the legal system, particularly in cases involving the safety of children. While understandable, this impulse carries significant legal and ethical risks, as demonstrated by Velasquez's conviction and the injury to an innocent bystander.

The details

In February 2022, Velasquez allegedly attempted to shoot Harry Goularte Jr., a daycare worker accused of abusing Velasquez's four-year-old son. The shots instead struck Goularte's stepfather, Paul Bender, causing non-life-threatening injuries. Velasquez initially pleaded not guilty but later entered a no-contest plea to charges including attempted first-degree murder and shooting at a motor vehicle. He was sentenced to five years in prison but received credit for time already served, making him eligible for parole sooner than initially anticipated.

  • In February 2022, Goularte was arrested on charges of lewd acts with a minor.
  • In February 2022, Velasquez allegedly attempted to shoot Goularte.
  • Velasquez was sentenced to five years in prison in 2022.
  • Velasquez was released on parole in February 2023, after serving 11 months in prison.
  • A civil suit filed by Velasquez and his family is scheduled for a jury trial on November 9th.

The players

Cain Velasquez

A former UFC Heavyweight Champion who was convicted of attempted murder for allegedly shooting at a man accused of abusing his son.

Harry Goularte Jr.

A daycare worker who was arrested on charges of lewd acts with a minor, the alleged abuse that prompted Velasquez's actions.

Paul Bender

The stepfather of Harry Goularte Jr., who was struck by Velasquez's gunfire and sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children

An organization dedicated to protecting children and advocating for stronger child protection laws.

Childhelp USA

A non-profit organization that provides resources and support for families dealing with child abuse.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, Grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in Goularte's criminal case will decide on April 15th whether to set a trial date. The civil lawsuit filed by Velasquez and his family is scheduled for a jury trial on November 9th.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complex balance between parental rights, the pursuit of justice, and the rule of law. While the desire to protect one's child is understandable, experts advise against taking matters into one's own hands, as vigilantism can have severe legal and ethical consequences. Families facing similar situations should seek guidance from law enforcement, child advocacy organizations, and legal professionals.