In a significant ruling, David DePape has been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for his violent attack on Paul Pelosi, the husband of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, at their San Francisco residence. This verdict stems from a state trial that occurred after DePape was previously sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for related charges.

Details of the Crime

A San Francisco jury found DePape guilty of multiple charges in June, including aggravated kidnapping, first-degree burglary, and false imprisonment of an elder. The attack took place on October 28, 2022, when DePape reportedly entered the Pelosi residence and confronted Paul Pelosi, who was 82 years old at the time, demanding to know the location of his wife, Nancy Pelosi.

In a letter read in court, Paul Pelosi described the traumatic experience, stating, “the last peaceful sleep I had ended abruptly when the defendant violently broke into my home.” He detailed his physical injuries and ongoing psychological effects from the assault.

Sentencing Proceedings

During the sentencing hearing, Judge Harry Dorfman emphasized the severity of DePape’s actions, adamantly declaring that he would “never get out of prison.” The judge highlighted that his primary concern lay with the victim, rather than DePape’s claims of a mental health struggle or susceptibility to online influences.

Defending attorney Adam Lipson attempted to argue for DePape’s mental health, suggesting that isolation had rendered him vulnerable to extremist propaganda. However, Judge Dorfman dismissed calls for a retrial and proceeded with sentencing.

DePape’s Courtroom Behavior

In an unusual display during the hearing, DePape addressed the court with a series of disjointed claims—involving conspiracy theories and personal allegations—rather than showing remorse for his criminal actions. The judge had to interrupt him multiple times to redirect his remarks toward the events of the crime.

Impact on the Pelosi Family and Community Reaction

In a joint statement following the sentencing, the Pelosi family expressed relief that justice had been served. They acknowledged the toll that the past two years had taken and reiterated the need for accountability against political violence, stating, “we hope to send a message that such acts against elected officials or their families will not be tolerated.”

The case garnered significant media attention, especially given its proximity to the midterm elections, serving as a stark reminder of the risks public officials and their families face.

Previous Federal Conviction

Prior to the state sentencing, DePape was convicted in federal court for assaulting a federal official’s family member and attempting to kidnap a federal official, receiving a 30-year sentence in May. His actions, which included plans to hold Nancy Pelosi hostage, were part of a broader context of politically motivated violence that has raised concerns across the nation.

Future Trends & Appeal

DePape’s defense team has indicated plans to appeal the state ruling, arguing that the trials amounted to double jeopardy, despite differing charges. Prosecutors, however, defended the sentencing as appropriate given the gravity of DePape’s conduct.