David DePape, the man who broke into Nancy Pelosi’s home and attacked her husband with a hammer, has been sentenced to 30 years in prison for attempted kidnapping of a federal official and assault on a family member. DePape admitted breaking into Pelosi’s home with the intention of holding her hostage and attacking her husband after police arrived. He was also found guilty of similar charges in state court.
Judge Jacqueline Scott Corley handed down the sentence, taking into account the unprecedented act of breaking into a public official’s home. Paul Pelosi testified about the attack, where DePape asked, “Where’s Nancy?” and threatened to tie him up while they waited for her. Pelosi urged for a long punishment for DePape, noting the similarity of the attack to the events of January 6, 2021, when the US Capitol was stormed by Trump supporters.
DePape’s lawyers argued that he was motivated by political beliefs and not an intention to interfere with Pelosi’s official duties, but prosecutors argued that his actions were intended to intimidate or coerce the government. DePape showed no remorse for his actions, and his lawyer claimed he was caught up in conspiracy theories.
DePape’s crimes were captured on video and were made public following petitions from news agencies. Paul Pelosi suffered head injuries and a fractured skull in the attack. DePape’s sentences will run concurrently, and he was given credit for the time served in custody. He faces further charges in state court, with jury selection for that trial expected to start soon.
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