40-Year Sentence Sought for Man Who Attacked Pelosi's Husband

Federal prosecutors have put forward a recommendation for a 40-year prison term for David DePape, the individual who forcefully entered the residence of former U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in San Francisco with the intention of taking her hostage. During this incident, DePape assaulted Pelosi's husband, Paul Pelosi, with a hammer. This request was made public by the San Francisco Chronicle ahead of DePape's sentencing hearing, highlighting the absence of remorse from DePape for his actions in October 2022.

According to court filings, prosecutors argue that DePape's history and behavior do not justify any form of leniency. They emphasized that DePape has not only acknowledged his actions but has also boasted about them, indicating a clear understanding of his intentions during the attack. Last year, DePape was found guilty of attempting to kidnap a federal official and assaulting a member of a federal official's immediate family. His sentencing is set for Friday.

The assault on Paul Pelosi, who was 82 at the time, was recorded on police body camera footage just days before the midterm elections, causing a stir in political circles. During his trial, DePape confessed to breaking into the Pelosi residence with the aim of holding Nancy Pelosi hostage and threatened to "break her kneecaps" should she lie to him. He further admitted to attacking Paul Pelosi with a hammer when police arrived, as his plan to combat what he perceived as government corruption began to fall apart.

Defense lawyers have pointed out that DePape was driven by his political beliefs and entangled in conspiracy theories. It was noted that Nancy Pelosi was not present in the home during the assault. The attack left Paul Pelosi with two head injuries, including a skull fracture that required surgical intervention involving plates and screws—medical procedures he will live with for the remainder of his life. Additionally, his right arm and hand sustained injuries.