UFC

Who Is Harry Goularte? What We Know About Man Cain Velasquez Attempted To Shoot

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harry goularte

Harry Goularte, a 46-year-old man from Santa Clara County, California, has become a central figure in a highly publicized legal case that has sent shockwaves through the MMA community. Goularte stands accused of molesting the young son of former UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez, an allegation that has led to a complex web of criminal and civil proceedings.

The Accusations Against Goularte

In February 2022, Goularte was arrested and charged with one felony count of lewd acts with a minor under the age of 14. The alleged victim, identified as Velasquez’s then 4-year-old son, reportedly told investigators that Goularte had touched him inappropriately on multiple occasions at a daycare facility owned by Goularte’s mother.

During a key preliminary hearing in February 2023, Velasquez’s son, then 5 years old, publicly implicated Goularte for the first time. The young boy testified that Goularte had touched him inappropriately at the daycare. This testimony was crucial in the judge’s decision to move forward with a trial against Goularte.

Legal Proceedings and Delays

Goularte has consistently maintained his innocence, pleading not guilty to the charges against him. His case has faced numerous delays in the judicial system, with trial dates being pushed back multiple times. As of July 2023, Goularte’s trial setting had been delayed.

If convicted, Goularte could face up to eight years in prison and a $10,000 fine. The severity of the charges and the high-profile nature of the case, given its connection to Cain Velasquez, have drawn significant public attention to the proceedings[10].

The Velasquez Connection and Civil Lawsuit

The case took a dramatic turn when Cain Velasquez, upon learning of the allegations against Goularte, took matters into his own hands. On February 28, 2022, Velasquez allegedly chased Goularte’s vehicle for 11 miles, firing multiple shots at the truck carrying Goularte, his mother, and his stepfather. While Goularte was unharmed, his stepfather sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

In addition to the criminal charges, Goularte now faces a civil lawsuit filed by the Velasquez family. The lawsuit accuses Goularte, his family members, and their associated businesses of negligence, sexual battery, and other claims related to the alleged molestation.

As the legal proceedings continue, Goularte remains out on bail with GPS monitoring. His trial, when it eventually takes place, is expected to be closely watched by both the MMA community and the public at large.

The case has raised complex questions about justice, vigilantism, and the protection of children. While Goularte is entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty, the allegations against him have already had far-reaching consequences, not least of which is the imprisonment of Cain Velasquez.

As both the criminal and civil cases move forward, the outcome of Goularte’s trial will likely have significant implications for all parties involved. The MMA world, in particular, continues to follow the case closely, given its connection to one of the sport’s most respected former champions.

The Goularte case serves as a stark reminder of the serious nature of these allegations and the profound impact they can have on families and communities. As the legal process unfolds, many will be watching to see how justice is served in this high-profile and emotionally charged case.