The state trial of David DePape for his home invasion hammer attack on Paul Pelosi, the husband of House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, came to a close with a verdict of guilty on all charges. DePape faced five counts in the trial, including aggravated kidnapping resulting in bodily harm or death, false imprisonment of an elder or dependent adult, threatening family of public officials, first degree residential burglary, and preventing or dissuading a witness by force or threat.
The jury deliberated for several days before reaching a unanimous decision on all five counts. Adam Lipson, the San Francisco Public Defender representing DePape, argued during closing statements that DePape had been influenced by conspiracy theories and propaganda when he broke into the Pelosis’ home on October 28, 2022.
Following the verdict, Aaron Bennett, a spokesman for Speaker Pelosi, released a statement on behalf of the Pelosi family expressing their gratitude for the support they had received during Mr. Pelosi’s recovery. The family praised Mr. Pelosi’s bravery and courage throughout the ordeal and stated that they would refrain from further comment until after sentencing.
Outside the courtroom, Lipson criticized the prosecutors for adding a charge of kidnapping for ransom after other charges had been dismissed earlier in the trial. He characterized the decision as vindictive and questioned the motive behind adding the charge.
Earlier in the trial, the judge granted a defense motion to dismiss three counts, including attempted murder, assault of an elder, and assault with a deadly weapon, based on the argument of double jeopardy. DePape had previously been sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for attempting to hold Speaker Pelosi hostage and assaulting her husband.
The attack on Paul Pelosi, captured on police bodycam video, shocked the political world just days before the 2022 midterm elections. The incident was attributed to the divisive political rhetoric prevalent at the time.
The guilty verdict on all five counts in the state trial means that DePape could potentially face spending the rest of his life in a California prison after serving his federal sentence. This outcome could prevent his deportation to Canada.
The trial began in late May, with opening statements following a procedural error during DePape’s federal sentencing. Lipson emphasized the significance of the guilty verdict and its implications for DePape’s future.
As the case comes to a close, the Pelosi family continues to recover from the traumatic event, grateful for the support they have received. DePape’s fate now rests in the hands of the California justice system as he awaits sentencing for his actions.
