Prosecutors push for 40-year sentence for man who assaulted Nancy Pelosi’s husband

Federal prosecutors are seeking a 40-year prison sentence for David DePape, the man convicted of attacking Paul Pelosi, the husband of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. The prosecutors argue that the violent nature of the offense warrants a longer sentence than the 25 years recommended by the U.S. Probation Office.

In a court filing, government attorneys emphasized the need for a harsh sentence to deter others from attempting similar crimes. They also argued for a terrorism enhancement to be applied, as DePape intended to promote a federal crime of terrorism.

DePape was found guilty of attempted kidnapping of a federal official and assault on an immediate family member of an elected official. The sentencing is scheduled for May 17.

The attack on Paul Pelosi occurred in October 2022 when DePape broke into the Pelosi’s California home and assaulted him with a hammer, leaving Pelosi with a fractured skull. DePape had been searching for Nancy Pelosi, asking for her whereabouts and threatening to break her kneecaps if she lied.

Despite the defense’s argument that DePape did not intend to kidnap anyone and his actions were not related to Rep. Pelosi’s government role, he still faces state charges of attempted murder and assault with a deadly weapon.

The case highlights the increasing threats faced by public and elected officials, with the number of threat assessment cases handled by the U.S. Capitol Police rising in recent years. The attack on Rep. Angie Craig in 2023 and other incidents demonstrate the need for stringent measures to protect elected officials from harm.