Man who attacked Paul Pelosi sentenced to 30 years in prison
The hammer-wielding man who brutally attacked Paul Pelosi, husband of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, in their San Francisco home has been sentenced to 30 years in prison, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California announced on Friday.
David DePape, the assailant, stood silently as U.S. District Judge Jacqueline Scott Corley delivered the sentencing. The judge decided on a 30-year punishment, coming close to the U.S. Probation Office’s recommendation of 25 years, but falling short of the government prosecutors’ request for the maximum term of 40 years.
DePape, who had no criminal history, was seeking a 14-year sentence from his attorneys, citing a difficult time in his life. However, the Pelosi family expressed pride in Paul Pelosi, also known as “Pop,” for his courage in saving his own life during the attack and testifying in the case.
The attack, which took place on October 28, 2022, resulted in DePape being found guilty of attempted kidnapping of a federal official and assault on the immediate family member of a federal official. He was sentenced to 20 years for one count and 30 years for the other, to run concurrently.
During the trial, DePape testified in his own defense and admitted to breaking into the Pelosi’s home with plans to use them in a plot to lure a Bay Area scholar. He referenced right-wing conspiracy theories and his obsession with political commentary on YouTube leading up to the attack.
Paul Pelosi testified that he was awakened by DePape, who had a hammer and zip ties, asking for Nancy Pelosi. When Pelosi said his wife was in Washington, D.C., DePape allegedly planned to tie him up until her return. Pelosi sustained a fractured skull in the attack but managed to call 911 when DePape was distracted.
The sentencing reflects DePape’s lack of remorse, according to U.S. Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey, who emphasized the importance of preventing political discourse from turning into violence. DePape still faces state charges, including attempted murder and assault with a deadly weapon, in addition to the federal charges.
The case is ongoing, with jury selection for the state charges set for Wednesday. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
