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David DePape Sentenced to Life for Hammer Attack on Paul Pelosi, Sparking Political Violence Debate

October 31, 2024
David DePape Sentenced to Life for Hammer Attack on Paul Pelosi, Sparking Political Violence Debate
  • David DePape has been sentenced to life in prison for attacking Paul Pelosi, the husband of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, with a hammer in their San Francisco home.

  • This life sentence follows a previous 30-year sentence handed down in a federal court in May 2023.

  • Following the sentencing, the Pelosi family expressed that 'legal justice has been served' and emphasized the lasting trauma from the assault.

  • A San Francisco jury found DePape guilty of multiple charges, including aggravated kidnapping and first-degree burglary, in June.

  • San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins condemned the attack as a serious assault on democracy and emphasized the need for accountability.

  • U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland previously highlighted the severity of DePape's federal conviction as a warning against political violence in a democratic society.

  • DePape's defense attorneys argued for a new trial, citing mental health issues and susceptibility to online propaganda, but these arguments were dismissed by the judge.

  • Reports indicate that DePape subscribed to various conspiracy theories and false claims propagated by former President Donald Trump regarding the 2020 election.

  • The brutal attack took place in the upscale Pacific Heights neighborhood on October 28, 2022, just days before the midterm elections, and was captured on police body camera video, leading to widespread shock.

  • During the trial, DePape made bizarre claims, including conspiracy theories about September 11, and showed no remorse for his actions.

  • The attack ignited discussions about politically motivated violence in the United States, reflecting a growing concern over threats against elected officials.

  • DePape's attorney announced plans to appeal the ruling, arguing that his mental health issues and isolation contributed to his violent actions.

Summary based on 20 sources


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