Federal prosecutors are urging a severe 40-year prison term for David DePape, the assailant convicted of breaking into the San Francisco home of former U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and assaulting her husband, Paul, with a hammer. The sentencing recommendation was outlined in a memorandum submitted to the U.S. District Court in San Francisco.

Lack of Remorse and Terrorism Enhancement

In their filing, prosecutors emphasized DePape’s refusal to acknowledge responsibility for his actions and his apparent absence of remorse. They argued for the inclusion of a terrorism enhancement in his sentence, characterizing his crimes as an affront to democracy and core societal values.

Defense Plea for Lesser Sentence

DePape’s attorneys, federal public defenders Jodi Linker and Angela Chuang, countered with a plea for a 14-year imprisonment term. They cited their client’s history of being manipulated in an abusive relationship, leading to immersion in extremist ideologies where perception of reality becomes distorted.

Trial Testimony and Admission of Guilt

During the trial, DePape testified to feeling genuine fear for Mr. Pelosi’s life, a sentiment his defense team highlighted as indicative of remorse. DePape confessed to orchestrating the attack on October 28, 2022, revealing his intention to expose what he perceived as governmental corruption by coercing confessions from Nancy Pelosi and other prominent figures.

Verdict and Incriminating Evidence

In 2023, a federal jury convicted DePape on charges of attempted kidnapping of a federal official and assault on the immediate family member of a federal official. The assault on Paul Pelosi, captured on police body camera footage, provided damning evidence of DePape’s actions.

Motive and Intent

DePape’s stated motive for the assault was to compel his victims to admit to corrupt practices. His resort to violence, particularly against Paul Pelosi, was portrayed as a desperate measure when his broader plan appeared to falter.

Conclusion: Upholding Justice and Safeguarding Democracy

The sentencing proceedings for David DePape underscore the seriousness with which acts of political violence are regarded by the legal system. As the nation grapples with polarizing ideologies and their potential consequences, the case serves as a reminder of the imperative to safeguard democratic principles and protect public figures and their families from harm.

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