Former UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez has filed a civil suit against Harry Goularte, who is currently awaiting trial for attempted murder and other charges. Velasquez alleges that Goularte, along with his family who own a child-care facility, allowed his son to be molested while under their care. The Velasquez family claims that Goularte had unsupervised access to the minor and other children, including extended periods of time in a bathroom and a playhouse. The civil suit was filed in Santa Clara County Superior Court.
Velasquez’s pending trial for attempted murder and the shooting of Goularte’s stepfather, Paul Bender, is scheduled for January. The incident occurred during a prolonged vehicle chase in Santa Clara County in February of last year.
The MMA community has shown sympathy for Velasquez due to the nature of the allegations against Goularte. Joe Rogan, among others, expressed support for Velasquez, stating his wish that Velasquez had taken matters into his own hands.
While Velasquez awaits trial, he has reflected on his eight-month imprisonment, stating that the experience allowed him to appreciate the small things in life and not take them for granted. He emphasized the importance of gratitude and being present in the moment.
Meanwhile, Goularte Jr. is also awaiting trial for one felony count of lewd acts with a minor under the age of 14. His trial-setting date has been pushed to November 2023, following multiple continuances.
