Significant development, David DePape has been found guilty by a California jury on all charges related to the 2022 hammer attack on Paul Pelosi, husband of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. The verdict, delivered on June 22, 2024, follows DePape’s prior federal conviction for the same assault.
Jury Deliberation and Charges
The jury, after deliberating since Tuesday afternoon in San Francisco and pausing on Wednesday, reached their decision on Friday afternoon. DePape, 44, faced several serious charges, including:
False imprisonment of an elder by violence or menace
Residential burglary
Threatening a family member of a public official
Dissuading a witness by force or threat
Aggravated kidnapping
These charges could lead to a life sentence without parole, with sentencing scheduled at a later date.
District Attorney’s Remarks
San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins emphasized the importance of the conviction. “This conviction ensures that DePape will face consequences for his heinous crimes against the Pelosi family and our democracy,” Jenkins stated, expressing gratitude to law enforcement and commending the Pelosi family’s bravery.
Defense’s Reaction
Public defender Adam Lipson, representing DePape, expressed disappointment with the outcome, arguing that the charges were excessive. “I don’t believe that this was a kidnapping for ransom. It’s unfortunate that he was charged this way,” Lipson said, noting DePape’s isolated life and susceptibility to conspiracy theories.
Trial Details
DePape, who pleaded not guilty, did not testify during the three-week trial. Initially, he faced additional charges of attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon, and elder abuse, which were dismissed by the judge due to concerns of double jeopardy following his federal conviction.
Assistant District Attorney Phoebe Maffei highlighted the severity of the case, describing how DePape broke into the Pelosis’ home, held Paul Pelosi hostage, and threatened his life. Paul Pelosi testified about the attack, detailing the traumatic experience and its lasting impact on his health.
Federal Conviction
In May, DePape was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for attempting to kidnap Nancy Pelosi and assaulting Paul Pelosi. He apologized for his actions during a resentencing hearing, stating, “I’m sorry for what I did, especially what I did to Paul Pelosi. I should have just left the house when I realized Nancy Pelosi wasn’t home.”
Incident Background
The attack occurred on October 28, 2022, when DePape broke into the Pelosis’ San Francisco residence, seeking Nancy Pelosi. Finding only Paul Pelosi, DePape attacked him with a hammer, causing severe injuries. Paul Pelosi was hospitalized for six days and underwent surgery for a skull fracture. The incident was captured on police body camera footage, adding to the compelling evidence against DePape.
David DePape’s actions and subsequent convictions highlight the grave consequences of his crimes, ensuring he will face substantial penalties for his assault on Paul Pelosi. The verdict provides a measure of justice and closure for the Pelosi family and underscores the resilience of law enforcement and the judicial system in addressing such serious offenses.
