The Attempted Kidnapping of Nancy Pelosi: Accused Attacker Goes to Trial
San Francisco, CA – The trial of David DePape, the man accused of breaking into former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s home and attacking her husband with a hammer in an attempted kidnapping, is set to begin on Thursday. DePape, 43, faces federal charges of attempted kidnapping of a federal officer or employee and assault on the immediate family of a federal official.
According to prosecutors, DePape forcefully entered the Pelosis’ residence in Pacific Heights in the early hours of October 28, 2022, in search of Nancy Pelosi. However, at the time, Paul Pelosi was asleep, and the former House Speaker was in Washington, D.C., miles away.
Court records reveal that DePape informed Paul Pelosi that he was fighting tyranny and intended to hold Nancy Pelosi hostage. He allegedly promised to release her if she revealed what he considered to be the truth but threatened to break her kneecaps if she refused. DePape claimed he wanted to show other Members of Congress the consequences of their actions, according to court records.
Upon discovering the break-in, Paul Pelosi immediately dialed 911 for assistance. Upon arrival, police officers found both men holding a hammer, which Pelosi later stated that DePape had brought with him. Authorities promptly ordered DePape to drop the weapon, but he refused. Instead, prosecutors allege that DePape swung the hammer at Paul Pelosi, striking him in the head. This disturbing attack, capturing on body cameras, resulted in the 83-year-old sustaining a skull fracture.
It has been revealed that DePape held firm beliefs regarding right-wing conspiracy theories. His online rants reportedly featured various claims, including the baseless Pizzagate theory, which alleged that Hillary Clinton operated a child sex abuse ring in a Washington, D.C. pizza parlor. The accused pleaded not guilty to federal charges last year.
In addition to the federal charges, DePape faces allegations of attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon, elder abuse, and more in state court. The upcoming trial will focus on the federal charges related to the attempted kidnapping and assault on Paul Pelosi.
As the trial commences, both the prosecution and the defense will present their opening statements on Thursday morning. The court proceedings are expected to shed light on the harrowing incident and provide a closer look at the accused attacker’s motivations and state of mind. The trial will play a crucial role in determining the legal consequences that DePape may face for his alleged actions.
As developments unfold in this high-profile case, the public awaits further insights into the trial, hoping for justice to prevail in what was a terrifying ordeal for Nancy Pelosi’s family.
