San Francisco, California – A man has been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for brutally attacking the husband of former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. David DePape, 44, was convicted of aggravated kidnapping and other charges in a California state court for the violent incident involving Paul Pelosi. This sentence is in addition to a 30-year federal prison term he is serving for the same crime.
The assault took place in October 2022 when DePape, a Canadian former nudist activist, targeted Nancy Pelosi but encountered her husband instead. Police bodycam footage captured the attack, where DePape struck Paul Pelosi with a hammer, resulting in a skull fracture that required surgery and hospitalization. Nancy Pelosi was not at home during the assault.
Before his sentencing, DePape made an emotional statement referencing various conspiracy theories, including the 9/11 attacks and “evil magic murder rituals.” He did not offer an apology to the Pelosi family and expressed intentions to appeal the sentence. San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins emphasized the seriousness of the attack, stating that it was a horrific incident that should not be used for political gain.
DePape’s actions have raised concerns about the safety of political figures and the need for increased security measures. The incident highlighted the vulnerability of public officials and their families to targeted violence, prompting a call for greater law enforcement presence and protective measures. The attack on Paul Pelosi serves as a reminder of the risks public figures face in a politically charged environment.