The man who allegedly attacked Paul Pelosi pleaded not guilty Tuesday on federal charges related to the break-in at the San Francisco home belonging to Paul and his wife, Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
Defendant David DePape is charged with one count of assault upon an immediate family member of a U.S. official with the intent of retaliation against that official and one count of attempted kidnapping of a U.S. official in retaliation for that official’s performance of duties. DePape could face up to 30 years in prison for the first count and 20 years for the second count. (RELATED: NBC News Reporter Suspended Over Retracted Paul Pelosi Story)
DePape allegedly forced his way into the Pelosis’ home wielding a hammer and yelling “Where’s Nancy?” as he made his way upstairs, where Paul was sleeping in the early morning hours of Oct. 28. Pelosi reportedly then made a secret 911 call from his bathroom, keeping the line open as he told DePape he would wait for his wife to return.
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 31: San Francisco district attorney Brooke Jenkins speaks during a news conference on October 31, 2022 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
DaPepe faces separate charges of attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon, elder abuse, residential burglary and other felonies from the San Francisco District Attorney.
“DePape will be held accountable for his violent and depraved attack, and we will prosecute him to the fullest extent of the law.” San Francisco DA Brooke Jenkins said. “We have coordinated with the San Francisco Police Department and other investigating agencies to bring forward a strong case against DePape.”