A man who was previously found guilty by a federal jury for a brutal home attack on Paul Pelosi, the husband of then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, has now been convicted in his state case. David DePape was found guilty of kidnapping, false imprisonment, threatening a public official, and burglary for the 2022 attack on Paul Pelosi in his San Francisco home.
The verdict was reached after the jury deliberated, and a Pelosi spokesperson expressed admiration for Paul Pelosi's bravery during the trial and recovery period. The family has shown extraordinary courage throughout the ordeal.
Charges of attempted murder, elder abuse, and assault with a deadly weapon were previously dismissed by a San Francisco Superior Court judge due to concerns over double jeopardy following DePape's federal conviction for the same attack. DePape was sentenced to 30 years in federal court for the assault.
The attack, captured on police body cameras, took place days before the 2022 midterm elections. DePape broke into the Pelosi home, seeking Nancy Pelosi, who was not present at the time. He assaulted Paul Pelosi with a hammer, causing severe injuries including head wounds and a skull fracture that required surgical intervention.
During his federal trial, DePape's attorney explained that his client had become isolated and immersed in conspiracy theories leading up to the attack. DePape's intention was not to kill Paul Pelosi but to hold Nancy Pelosi hostage and force her to admit to alleged lies related to the 'Russiagate' investigation.
DePape expressed remorse for his actions, acknowledging the harm caused to Mr. Pelosi and expressing regret for not leaving when he realized Nancy Pelosi was absent from the residence.
