The man convicted of attempting to kidnap then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and attacking her husband with a hammer, David DePape, has been sentenced to 30 years in prison. The sentencing was handed down by Judge Jacqueline Scott Corley, who took into account the unprecedented nature of DePape’s actions in breaking into the home of a public official. DePape was also given credit for the 18 months he has already spent in custody. His public defense attorneys had requested a 14-year sentence, citing his lack of prior criminal history and the difficult time he was going through in his life.
Before the sentencing, victim statements were read on behalf of Nancy Pelosi and her husband, Paul Pelosi, detailing how the violent attack had changed their lives. Nancy Pelosi’s spokesperson expressed gratitude for the support and prayers the family has received during Paul Pelosi’s recovery. DePape had admitted during the trial that he broke into the Pelosis’ San Francisco home with the intention of holding the speaker hostage and attacking her husband if necessary. He claimed his plan unraveled when police showed up, leading to the violent attack on Paul Pelosi with a hammer.
The attack on Paul Pelosi, captured on police body camera video, sent shockwaves through the political world just days before the midterm elections. Defense attorneys argued that DePape’s motivations were based on his political beliefs, as he was caught up in conspiracy theories related to government corruption. DePape, a Canadian who had moved to the U.S. over 20 years ago, testified that he believed news outlets lied about former President Donald Trump and echoed the QAnon conspiracy theory. He had planned to wear an inflatable unicorn costume and record the interrogation of Nancy Pelosi, which he intended to upload online.
Prosecutors presented evidence that DePape had rope, zip ties, body cameras, a computer, and a tablet with him during the attack. Paul Pelosi testified at the trial, recounting the terrifying experience of waking up to a stranger in their bedroom asking for Nancy Pelosi. He suffered head wounds, including a skull fracture, that required plates and screws for treatment. DePape faces additional charges in state court, including assault with a deadly weapon, elder abuse, and residential burglary. Jury selection for that trial is expected to begin soon. The violent attack on the Pelosis has raised concerns about the safety of public officials and their families.
