Man receives 30-year sentence for attacking Nancy Pelosi’s husband with a hammer | US News
The man who was found guilty of attacking Nancy Pelosi’s husband with a hammer has been sentenced to 30 years in prison.
David DePape, 44, was convicted last November of attempted kidnapping of a federal official and assault on the immediate family member of a federal official.
Judge Jacqueline Scott Corley issued a 30-year prison sentence despite prosecutors requesting a 40-year term.
David DePape in 2013. Pic: Michael Short/San Francisco Chronicle via AP
DePape received consecutive sentences of 20 years for one count and 30 years for another count, with credit for the 18 months he has been in custody.
During trial testimony, DePape confessed to breaking into the Pelosis’ San Francisco home in October 2022 with the intention of kidnapping Nancy Pelosi and harming her if she lied to him.
He also admitted to attacking Paul Pelosi with a hammer when police arrived, claiming his mission to stop government corruption was falling apart.
The assault on Mr Pelosi, aged 82 at the time, was recorded on police body cameras.
Defense attorneys argued that DePape’s actions were driven by his political beliefs rather than an attempt to interfere with Pelosi’s congressional duties, questioning the validity of the charges against him.
One of his lawyers stated during closing arguments that DePape was influenced by conspiracy theories.
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The attack occurred at the couple’s San Francisco home in October 2022. Pic: AP
Plans to wear inflatable unicorn costume during interrogation
During the trial, the Canadian testified he believed news outlets constantly lied about former president Donald Trump.
DePape also mentioned his intent to wear an inflatable unicorn costume while recording his interrogation of the Democratic speaker, planning to upload it online.
Prosecutors discovered he possessed rope, zip ties, body cameras, a computer, and a tablet.
‘A tremendous shock’
Mr Pelosi described the moment when a man broke into their bedroom and inquired about Nancy, leading to a frightening encounter.
He recalled informing the intruder that his wife was in Washington, to which DePape suggested tying him up until she returned.
Mr Pelosi expressed the shock and fear he felt during the incident.
State court charges
DePape faces additional charges in state court, including assault with a deadly weapon, elder abuse, residential burglary, and other felonies. Jury selection for that trial is set to begin soon.
Mr Pelosi suffered severe injuries, including head wounds and a skull fracture, during the attack. His right arm and hand were also harmed.
