A man broke into Rep. Nancy Pelosi’s San Francisco home and attacked her husband, Paul Pelosi, with a hammer. He was found guilty by a jury on all charges in the state case against him. David DePape had already been convicted on federal charges related to the break-in and attack, receiving a 30-year prison sentence in that case.
“We are truly all grateful for Mr. Pelosi’s physical recovery, and hope that this verdict can allow them to rest a little easier as they move forward,” said San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins after the guilty verdict was returned.
DePape was found guilty of aggravated kidnapping, first-degree burglary, false imprisonment, threats against an elected official or their family, and preventing or dissuading a witness by force or threat.
Nancy Pelosi was not at home during the break-in and was unharmed. Paul Pelosi testified that he was attacked by a large man with a hammer and zip ties who asked for Nancy’s whereabouts. He managed to call 911 when the attacker was not looking, leading to police arriving at the scene.
During the federal trial, Pelosi suffered a fractured skull when DePape struck him on the head with the hammer.
The aggravated kidnapping charge could result in a longer sentence than the federal charges, potentially even life in prison without parole.
In the state trial, the defense argued that DePape had been influenced by conspiracy theories before the attack. The defense admitted guilt on three charges but argued that there was not enough evidence for the other charges.
DePape was previously convicted in the federal case on assault and attempted kidnapping charges and was sentenced in May.
The sentencing for the state case has not been decided yet, with the prosecution planning to consult with the Pelosi family before filing a sentencing brief.