A man who brutally attacked Paul Pelosi, husband of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, in their San Francisco home with a hammer has been sentenced to 30 years in prison. U.S. District Judge Jacqueline Scott Corley decided on the sentence, which was close to the 25 years recommended by the U.S. Probation Office but less than the 40 years sought by government prosecutors. The Pelosi family expressed pride in Paul Pelosi for his courage during the attack and recovery, thanking those who have offered support over the past eighteen months. The attacker, David DePape, was found guilty of attempted kidnapping of a federal official and assault on the immediate family member of a federal official in November 2022.
DePape testified in his own defense, admitting to breaking into the Pelosi’s home with plans to use them in a plot involving Bay Area scholar Gayle Rubin. He referenced right-wing conspiracy theories and his obsession with political commentary on YouTube leading up to the attack. DePape had previously stated that he intended to break Speaker Pelosi’s kneecaps if she didn’t answer his questions truthfully, but during his testimony, he tried to retract that statement. Paul Pelosi was able to call 911 during the break-in, and police arrived to find DePape attacking him with the hammer. The U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of California, Ismail J. Ramsey, emphasized DePape’s lack of remorse and contrition for the violent assault.
The sentencing for DePape serves as a reminder that violent actions have consequences in the political discourse. While robust debate is a necessary part of democracy, it should never escalate into violence. DePape’s actions were condemned for their attempt to pollute the political process with violence. He still faces state charges for attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon, elder abuse, residential burglary, false imprisonment, and threatening a public official, with jury selection set to begin in the state case soon. The San Francisco District Attorney’s Office is pursuing these additional charges against DePape, ensuring that he is held accountable for his actions.
The Pelosi family expressed gratitude for the support they have received during Paul Pelosi’s recovery from the attack. In a statement released through a spokesperson, they praised Paul Pelosi’s courage in saving himself during the attack and testifying in the case. The family thanked those who had sent love and prayers over the past year and a half. DePape’s violent actions had a significant impact on the Pelosi family, but they remain resilient and grateful for the outpouring of support they have received from the community.
The attack on Paul Pelosi was a harrowing experience that could have had tragic consequences. DePape’s actions were fueled by extremist beliefs and a desire to use violence to achieve his goals. The court’s decision to sentence him to 30 years in prison sends a strong message that political disagreements should never lead to violence. DePape’s lack of remorse and contrition for his actions were noted by the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of California, who emphasized the importance of keeping political discourse peaceful and respectful. As DePape faces additional state charges, the legal system continues to hold him accountable for his violent attack on Paul Pelosi and attempt to disrupt the political process through violence.
