David DePape was sentenced to 30 years in prison for assaulting and attempting to kidnap Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi’s husband, Paul, in October 2022. The judge, Jacqueline Scott Corley, stated that the severity of the offense was taken into consideration when determining the sentence. DePape was found guilty in a San Francisco federal court in November for assault on a federal official’s family member and attempted kidnapping of a federal official.
During the trial, DePape’s attorneys admitted that he had attacked Paul Pelosi, but argued that his motives did not align with the charges against him. DePape testified in his own defense, revealing his motivations before the attack and expressing emotional responses to conspiracy theories he believed to be true. He admitted to looking for Nancy Pelosi and was surprised to find Paul at home, who he told he had other targets but would go through him if necessary. DePape stated that his plan was ruined when Pelosi tried to stop him, leading to the violent assault.
Paul Pelosi recounted waking up to find DePape in his home with a hammer, asking for his wife before striking him in the head. After a struggle, Pelosi underwent surgery for a skull fracture and other injuries, experiencing ongoing difficulties in his recovery including lightheadedness and headaches. Speaker Emerita Pelosi stated that the attack had a lasting impact on three generations of their family and disrupted their domestic tranquility. DePape faces additional charges in a state case, including attempted murder, burglary, and assault, with a trial expected to proceed in the summer.
The judge’s decision to sentence DePape to 30 years in prison was based on the violent nature of the attack on Paul Pelosi and the implications of targeting a federal official’s family member. DePape’s testimony during the trial shed light on his beliefs in conspiracy theories and his surprise at finding Paul instead of Nancy at home. Despite admitting to the assault, DePape argued that his original intent was not to harm Pelosi and that the attack was a result of his plan being thwarted.
Paul Pelosi’s testimony described the violent encounter with DePape, resulting in serious injuries that required surgical intervention and ongoing symptoms. Speaker Emerita Pelosi emphasized the lasting impact of the attack on their family and the disruption of their sense of security. With a state case pending against DePape, including serious charges that will be addressed in an upcoming trial, the consequences of his actions are far-reaching for both the victims and the perpetrator. The judge’s decision to impose a significant prison sentence reflects the gravity of the offense and the need for accountability in cases of violent attacks on public officials and their families.
