David DePape, the man convicted of attempting to kidnap then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco) and attacking her husband with a hammer was sentenced to 30 years in prison on Friday.
DePape attacked Paul Pelosi in 2022, who suffered a fractured skull and injured right arm and hand.
Driving the news: DePape admitted to breaking into the Pelosis’ San Francisco home with the intent to hold the speaker hostage and “break her kneecaps” if she lied to him.
- He also acknowledged assaulting Paul Pelosi with a hammer after police arrived, stating that his plan to end what he perceived as government corruption was unraveling.
The big picture: Prosecutors sought a 40-year prison term for DePape, who was found guilty of attempted kidnapping of a federal official and assault on the immediate family member of a federal official.
- Defense attorneys argued that DePape’s motivation was driven by his political beliefs, rather than an intention to interfere with the speaker’s official duties, questioning the validity of the charges against him.
- During the trial, DePape, a Canadian who had been living in the U.S. for over 20 years, testified that he believed news outlets consistently lied about former President Donald Trump.
- DePape had plans to wear an inflatable unicorn costume and record his interrogation of Nancy Pelosi, intending to upload it online.
- Evidence presented by prosecutors included the discovery of rope, zip ties, body cameras, a computer, and a tablet in DePape’s possession.
- Paul Pelosi testified at the trial, recounting the moment he was confronted by DePape in their bedroom and his realization that he was in serious danger.
What we’re watching: DePape also faces charges in state court, including assault with a deadly weapon, elder abuse, and residential burglary. Jury selection for that trial is expected to begin on May 22.
