SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – A man convicted of attempting to kidnap former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and assaulting her husband with a hammer has been sentenced to 30 years in prison. David DePape, 44, received his verdict from Judge Jacqueline Scott Corley on Friday after being found guilty of attempting to kidnap a federal official and assaulting a family member of a federal official last November. Prosecutors had initially sought a 40-year prison term, but DePape was ultimately handed 20 years for one count and 30 years for another, to be served concurrently. His defense attorneys had requested a shorter sentence, highlighting his lack of prior criminal history and personal struggles at the time of the incident.
During the sentencing, DePape stood silently as the judge delivered her decision, reflecting on the unprecedented nature of his crime – breaking into the home of a public official. Prior to the verdict, victim statements were read on behalf of Nancy Pelosi and her husband, detailing the impact of the violent attack on their lives. The Pelosi family expressed gratitude for the support received during Paul Pelosi’s recovery from the assault.
DePape confessed to breaking into the Pelosis’ San Francisco residence in October 2022 with intentions to hold Nancy Pelosi hostage and inflict harm if she did not comply. His actions, which included attacking Paul Pelosi with a hammer upon the arrival of police, were captured on body camera footage. The defense argued that DePape’s motivations stemmed from his political beliefs rather than a desire to disrupt Nancy Pelosi’s congressional duties, suggesting that the charges against him were unfounded.
Throughout the trial, DePape, a Canadian immigrant who has resided in the U.S. for over two decades, revealed his adherence to baseless conspiracy theories and extremist views. His plan to document the speaker’s alleged interrogation while wearing an inflatable unicorn costume underscored the disturbing nature of his intentions. Prosecutors presented evidence of DePape’s preparedness for a prolonged hostage situation, indicating a premeditated strategy in place.
In addition to federal charges, DePape also faces state-level allegations of assault with a deadly weapon, elder abuse, residential burglary, and other felonies. Testimony from Paul Pelosi depicted the harrowing moments of the break-in, emphasizing the sense of imminent danger he felt upon encountering DePape armed with a hammer. The lasting physical injuries sustained by Paul Pelosi serve as a reminder of the trauma inflicted during the attack.
As DePape awaits further legal proceedings, the repercussions of his actions continue to reverberate within the political sphere and underscore the importance of safeguarding public officials and their families from acts of violence. The intensity of his convictions reflects the gravity of the offense committed, resonating with the broader implications of protecting individuals in positions of public service.