David DePape Sentenced
David DePape, the man convicted of breaking into former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s home and attacking her husband Paul with a hammer, has been sentenced to 30 years in federal prison. This comes after a trial in which the jury found him guilty of attempted kidnapping of a federal officer or employee and assault of an immediate family member of a federal official.
The incident occurred on October 28, 2022, when DePape broke into the Pelosi residence in San Francisco while only Paul Pelosi was home. DePape admitted that he was looking for Nancy Pelosi to question her about Russian influence on the 2016 election and had planned to hold her hostage. However, his plans were foiled as only Paul Pelosi was present at the time.
During the trial, Paul Pelosi testified that DePape repeatedly asked him where Nancy was and then attacked him with a hammer, causing major injuries including a skull fracture. According to the criminal complaint, DePape had planned to break Nancy Pelosi’s kneecaps if she lied about the Russian influence on the 2016 election.
In a statement released by the Pelosi family, they expressed their pride in Paul Pelosi for his courage in saving his own life on the night of the attack and for testifying in the case. They are also grateful for the love and prayers they have received from the public over the last eighteen months, as Paul Pelosi continues his recovery.
Christine Pelosi, the Pelosis’ daughter, also appeared in court and read victim impact statements from the family. It was an emotional moment as she spoke of the impact the attack had on her family.
The sentencing came after federal prosecutors sought a 40-year sentence for DePape, stating that he had planned a violent hostage-taking of the Speaker Emerita and nearly killed her husband. They argued that the sentence should reflect the severity of the offense and teach a lesson that violent actions are not tolerated in this country.
On the other hand, DePape’s attorneys asked for a 14-year sentence, stating that DePape reacted when his plan was ruined and he was sorry for injuring Paul Pelosi. They also pointed out that DePape is facing state charges and has pleaded not guilty.
DePape’s state trial for attempted murder is set to start on May 22. Despite being sentenced to 30 years in federal prison, he could face more time if convicted on the state charges.
This case has sparked a debate about the security of public officials, especially in light of recent events such as the January 6th insurrection at the US Capitol. It has also highlighted the steps that need to be taken to address mental health issues and prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.