Former UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez is scheduled to go on trial in September.
Judge Elizabeth C. Peterson set a trial date for Sept. 9 during a hearing Wednesday in Santa Clara County (Calif.) court. Velasquez, who was present at the hearing, faces multiple charges including attempted murder.
Velazquez’s attorney, Lenny Hessling, requested a new proceeding because the evidence subpoenaed by the defense was incomplete. However, prosecutor Aaron French opposed that request, and Peterson ultimately chose to set a trial date for September.
Several other important dates are scheduled. A pretrial hearing is scheduled for June 26th, and motions must be filed by August 12th and completed by August 26th. Meanwhile, witness lists for the defense and prosecution must be submitted by September 4.
Velasquez faces attempted murder and other charges for allegedly chasing down and firing on Harry Gularte, who is accused of sexually abusing Velasquez’s young son in March 2022. During a high-speed pursuit, Velasquez allegedly fired at the vehicle carrying Guralte, causing the vehicle to crash and injure him. his stepfather, Paul Bender; Mr. Velasquez has pleaded not guilty to the charges. If he is convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison and up to life in prison.
Velasquez spent eight months in a detention facility before being released on $1 million bail in November. He remains under GPS monitoring and cannot leave his home without court permission. Since his release, Velasquez has shadowed teammates on UFC and Bellator cards and traveled to pro wrestling events.
Mr. Gularte is also out on bail, awaiting trial in July on a felony charge of indecency with a child.
