Former UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez has been transferred to Wasco State Prison, marking his first step into the California prison system following his conviction and sentencing. This move comes after he pleaded no contest to multiple charges, including attempted murder.
Velasquez received a five-year sentence and is currently housed at Wasco State Prison, located just outside Bakersfield, California. While the prison is approximately three hours from Velasquez`s San Jose home, Wasco primarily functions as a reception center. It serves to process and classify new inmates before they are transferred to longer-term facilities.
At Wasco, new inmates undergo physical and mental evaluations to determine their security level. This assessment process is crucial before inmates are assigned to one of California`s main correctional facilities, such as San Quentin or Folsom State Prison.
Based on his sentencing terms, Velasquez is eligible for parole starting in March 2026. However, this date could potentially be moved forward if he earns credits for good behavior and participation in approved prison programs.
Although Velasquez was given a five-year sentence, over three years were immediately deducted. This reduction accounts for time already served, including eight months spent in jail after his initial arrest when he was repeatedly denied bail, and the period he was under house arrest with electronic monitoring after his release.
Unless unforeseen circumstances arise, Velasquez could potentially be released as early as March 2026.
Velasquez`s conviction resulted from an 11-mile high-speed pursuit of a vehicle carrying Harry Goularte. Goularte is accused of sexually abusing Velasquez`s son at a daycare operated by Goularte`s mother. Goularte faces charges related to these allegations but was released from custody despite objections from the prosecution.
During the chase, Velasquez fired several shots from a handgun at the vehicle. Ultimately, it was Goularte`s stepfather, Paul Bender, who was injured, sustaining non-life-threatening wounds.
Velasquez was arrested without incident and faced numerous charges, including attempted murder.
The next court date for Velasquez is scheduled for April 16. At this hearing, the court will address restitution, where a judge will determine the financial penalties Velasquez must pay to compensate victims for damages, medical expenses, therapy, counseling costs, and even insurance deductibles.
