San Francisco, California – David DePape, the 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. This ruling came after a jury found him guilty last November of attempting to kidnap a federal official and assaulting a family member of a federal official. While prosecutors had sought a 40-year sentence, Judge Jacqueline Scott Corley handed down the 30-year term.
DePape, 44, stood silently as the judge delivered the sentence, receiving 20 years for one count and 30 years for another, to be served concurrently. His defense attorneys had requested a 14-year sentence, citing his lack of criminal history and challenging circumstances in his life. However, Judge Corley considered the severity of his actions, breaking into the home of a prominent public official, which she called an unprecedented act in the country’s history.
Before the sentencing, Christine Pelosi, daughter of Nancy Pelosi, read victim impact statements on behalf of her parents, detailing the profound impact of the violent attack on their lives. The Pelosi family expressed their pride in their father’s bravery during the incident and gratitude for the support they have received during his recovery.
During the trial, DePape admitted to breaking into the Pelosi residence in San Francisco with intentions to hold the speaker hostage and harm her if necessary. He also confessed to assaulting Paul Pelosi with a hammer, an act captured on police body camera footage just days before the midterm elections. Defense attorneys argued that DePape’s actions stemmed from his political beliefs rather than a desire to interfere with Nancy Pelosi’s duties as a congresswoman.
DePape, a Canadian resident in the U.S. for over 20 years, voiced unfounded conspiracy theories about former President Donald Trump and espoused beliefs associated with the QAnon movement. He planned to record his interaction with Speaker Pelosi in an inflatable unicorn costume and upload it online. Prosecutors presented evidence of DePape carrying restraining tools and recording equipment during the break-in.
The attack left Paul Pelosi with severe injuries, including skull fractures requiring surgical repair. DePape now faces additional charges in state court, including assault with a deadly weapon, elder abuse, and burglary. As the legal proceedings continue, the Pelosi family navigates the aftermath of a terrifying incident that shook the political landscape.