SAN FRANCISCO, CA – David DePape, the man convicted of attempting to abduct former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and attacking her husband, Paul Pelosi, with a hammer, received a 30-year prison sentence from Judge Jacqueline Scott Corley on Friday. DePape was found guilty of attempted kidnapping of a federal official and assault on the family member of a federal official by a jury last November. Prosecutors sought a 40-year prison term, but DePape was ultimately given 30 years, with 20 years for one count and 30 years for another, to be served concurrently.
During the sentencing, DePape stood quietly as Judge Corley delivered the verdict. DePape’s public defense lawyers had requested a 14-year sentence, citing his lack of prior criminal history and challenging period in his life. However, Judge Corley took into account the severity of his actions, breaking into the home of a public official, which she described as completely unprecedented.
Before the sentencing took place, Christine Pelosi, daughter of Nancy and Paul Pelosi, read statements on behalf of her parents detailing the impact of the violent attack on their lives. The Pelosi family expressed their pride in Paul Pelosi’s bravery during the assault and his subsequent testimony in court, as well as their gratitude to all who supported them during his recovery.
DePape confessed during the trial that he had broken into the Pelosis’ San Francisco residence with intentions of holding the speaker captive and inflicting harm. Video footage from police body cameras captured the attack on Paul Pelosi, then 82 years old, just days before the midterm elections, sending shockwaves through the political realm.
In the midst of his trial, DePape, a Canadian immigrant, revealed his belief that news outlets were spreading falsehoods about former President Donald Trump, echoing unfounded QAnon conspiracy theories. He admitted planning to wear an inflatable unicorn costume while recording an encounter with Nancy Pelosi to substantiate his claims, with equipment including rope, zip ties, body cameras, a computer, and a tablet in his possession at the time of the incident.
Paul Pelosi recounted his terrifying experience of DePape breaking into their home and demanding to know Nancy’s whereabouts, ultimately inflicting severe injuries on him. DePape faces additional charges in state court, including assault with a deadly weapon, elder abuse, and residential burglary. The trial is scheduled to begin with jury selection next week.
Paul Pelosi endured head injuries, including a skull fracture necessitating surgical repair, as well as damage to his right arm and hand during the attack. The sentencing of DePape for his ruthless actions offers some closure to the Pelosi family, who have navigated the aftermath of this traumatic event.