Ex-UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez has entered the California prison system after being convicted and sentenced. He pleaded no contest to several charges, including attempted murder.
Velasquez received a five-year prison sentence and is currently at Wasco State Prison near Bakersfield, California. While Wasco is about a three-hour drive from his San Jose home, it`s primarily a reception center. Inmates are processed here before being moved to a long-term facility.
Wasco Prison is used to assess new inmates both physically and mentally. This evaluation helps determine the security level needed for housing before they are transferred to major California prisons like San Quentin or Folsom.
According to his sentence, Velasquez is eligible for parole starting in March 2026. This date could be moved earlier if he earns time off for good behavior or participation in prison programs.
Although his sentence is five years, Velasquez has already had over three years deducted. This is due to time served after his initial arrest and subsequent house arrest with an ankle monitor.
Unless unforeseen circumstances arise, Velasquez could potentially be released as early as March 2026.
Velasquez`s conviction stems from an incident where he pursued a car for 11 miles at high speed. The car contained Harry Goularte, who is accused of sexually abusing Velasquez`s son at a daycare run by Goularte`s mother. Goularte is facing charges in that case but was released from custody despite prosecution objections.
During the chase, Velasquez fired multiple gunshots at the car. However, it was Goularte`s stepfather, Paul Bender, who was shot and sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
Velasquez was arrested without resistance and faced numerous charges, including attempted murder.
Velasquez`s next court appearance is on April 16. At this hearing, a judge will determine the financial restitution he must pay to the victims. This restitution can cover expenses like lost income, medical bills, therapy, and insurance deductibles.
Wesley Dunham 
Marcus Blakely