San Francisco, California – A federal judge in San Francisco sentenced a man convicted of breaking into the home of House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi and attacking her husband to 30 years in prison. The attack took place in 2022, and the sentence was announced on Friday by authorities through a social media post.
David DePape, 44, was found guilty of kidnapping and assault in November, leading to the sentencing decision. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California stated that prosecutors had requested a 40-year prison sentence for DePape, while his attorneys argued for a 14-year term. The jury handed down a 20-year sentence for one count and 30 years for another, with the sentences running concurrently.
During the trial, it was revealed that DePape broke into Pelosi’s home while she was in Washington and attacked her husband, Paul Pelosi, with a hammer. The assault, captured on police body cameras, resulted in Paul Pelosi sustaining a skull fracture and other injuries. DePape admitted to breaking into the Pelosi residence with the intention of taking Nancy Pelosi hostage, claiming he was “fighting tyranny.”
Judge Jacqueline Scott Corley took into consideration the unprecedented nature of the crime when delivering the 30-year sentence, citing that breaking into the home of a public official is a significant breach of security. Nancy Pelosi expressed gratitude for the support received by her family throughout the ordeal, praising her husband’s bravery in saving himself during the attack and testifying in court. She stated that the family will not be commenting further on the matter due to ongoing state court proceedings.
In addition to the federal charges, DePape is also facing state charges of attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon, and elder abuse. The case highlights the risks public officials and their families may face due to security breaches and emphasizes the importance of ensuring their safety and well-being. The sentencing sends a strong message about the consequences individuals may face for violent acts against public figures.