LOS ANGELES — A former UFC champion, Cain Velasquez, has been sentenced to five years in prison for a shooting incident that occurred in 2022. Velasquez was convicted on charges of attempted murder, felony assault, and other gun-related offenses following what authorities described as a “vigilante shooting spree” in Santa Clara County. The sentencing comes after Velasquez pleaded no contest to the charges last August, with credit for time served being taken into account.
In February 2022, Velasquez fired shots at a truck carrying three individuals, including a man facing felony child molestation charges. Prior to the shooting, the accused molester had been arrested in connection with the sexual assault of a child at a daycare facility owned by his family. He was subsequently released under house arrest and was in the process of obtaining an electronic monitoring bracelet when the altercation with Velasquez unfolded.
During a car chase that spanned 11 miles, Velasquez targeted the man accused of molesting his son, resulting in the man’s stepfather being injured. Velasquez, a two-time UFC heavyweight champion, has since expressed remorse for his actions, acknowledging the danger posed not only to those directly involved but also to innocent bystanders. He emphasized the importance of refraining from taking the law into one’s own hands and instead advocating for a legal process to seek justice.
In a statement, the District Attorney highlighted the grave consequences of individuals resorting to vigilantism, emphasizing the overall impact on the community. Despite Velasquez’s intentions to protect his family, the outcome of his actions underscored the potential risks and collateral damage that can arise from such acts of retribution. It serves as a cautionary tale of the pitfalls of seeking justice through extrajudicial means.
Velasquez’s legal counsel expressed a mix of emotions over the sentencing, describing it as “bittersweet” due to their efforts to keep him out of prison. Nonetheless, they commended Velasquez for owning up to his actions and accepting accountability. Moving forward, Velasquez has committed to repaying his debt to society, recognizing the gravity of his decisions and the need to uphold the rule of law. The case serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding issues of justice, morality, and the boundaries of personal responsibility in a legal system designed to safeguard the welfare of all individuals involved.