Man who attacked Pelosi’s husband is convicted of federal assault and attempted kidnapping charges

In a recent verdict, David DePape has been found guilty by a jury of attempting to kidnap a federal official and assaulting an immediate family member of a federal official. The case revolves around the disturbing incident that occurred at the San Francisco home of former U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in 2022.

The jury’s decision came after approximately eight hours of deliberation. DePape, who could potentially face a maximum sentence of up to 50 years in prison, remained stoic as the verdict was delivered.

The incident, captured on police body camera footage just days before the midterm elections, involved the assailant, DePape, breaking into the residence of then-82-year-old Paul Pelosi, Nancy Pelosi’s husband, and wielding a hammer. During the trial, DePape admitted to his actions, revealing that his intent was to hold Nancy Pelosi hostage and, if necessary, resort to violence, specifically mentioning breaking her kneecaps if she lied to him. Furthermore, he confessed to attacking Paul Pelosi with the hammer when San Francisco police officers arrived at the scene, as he believed his plan to combat perceived government corruption was unraveling.

DePape’s defense attorneys argued that his motivations stemmed from political beliefs rather than an intention to interfere with Nancy Pelosi’s official duties as a member of Congress, suggesting that the charges against him were invalid. Angela Chuang, one of his attorneys, asserted during closing arguments that DePape had become entangled in conspiracy theories.

U.S. Attorney Ismail Ramsey, in a press conference outside the federal courthouse where the verdict was announced, emphasized the message that regardless of one’s beliefs, physical attacks on members of Congress or their immediate family members for the performance of their job are unacceptable.

The sentencing date for David DePape has not yet been scheduled, but a status hearing is planned for December 13. Additionally, DePape faces state charges, including assault with a deadly weapon, elder abuse, residential burglary, and other felonies. A state trial date will be determined during a hearing on November 29, as indicated by San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins, who stated that her office will collaborate with federal prosecutors and the Pelosi family to determine the next steps.

During his testimony, DePape endorsed right-wing conspiracy theories and disclosed plans to wear an inflatable unicorn costume while recording his interrogation of Nancy Pelosi, with the intention of uploading it online. Prosecutors revealed that he had rope and zip ties in his possession, along with body cameras, a computer, and a tablet.

DePape claimed that his objective was to pressure Nancy Pelosi into admitting to alleged falsehoods, stating that if she lied, he would resort to violence. He also mentioned other potential targets, including a women’s and queer studies professor, California Governor Gavin Newsom, actor Tom Hanks, and President Joe Biden’s son, Hunter Biden.

Paul Pelosi, in his testimony, recounted the terrifying moment when DePape forcibly entered their bedroom, seeking Nancy Pelosi. Despite being threatened, Pelosi managed to call 911 while DePape looked on, urging him to tell the police they were friends. However, DePape subsequently struck him with a hammer even after the police arrived, causing severe injuries. More than a year later, Paul Pelosi continues to grapple with the physical and emotional aftermath of the attack.

The spokesperson for Nancy Pelosi issued a statement after the verdict, noting that Paul Pelosi is making progress in his recovery and expressing gratitude for the support they have received from people across the United States.

In conclusion, the conviction of David DePape on federal assault and attempted kidnapping charges underscores the seriousness of the attack on Nancy Pelosi’s husband and sends a clear message that physical violence against elected officials and their families is unacceptable, regardless of political beliefs.

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