David DePape admitted to attacking Paul Pelosi and told San Francisco police that he intended to hold Nancy Pelosi hostage, according to a recording of his interrogation made public Friday.
While speaking to a special investigator, DePape, 42, espoused conspiracy theories focused on the Democratic Party and Nancy Pelosi, who at the time was the speaker of the House.
Authorities had previously described DePape’s statement, including that he wanted to break Nancy Pelosi’s kneecaps, shortly after he was arrested at the Pelosis home on Oct. 28. But this is the first time the public can hear DePape’s response to the officer’s questions.
Body camera footage showing DePape apparently assaulting Pelosi, a recording of Pelosi speaking with a 911 operator and surveillance footage showing someone identified as DePape breaking into the Pacific Heights home were all released Friday.
In the interrogation, DePape readily admitted to being the attacker and explained in step-by-step detail how he broke into the house. He also espoused his many false beliefs that the Democrats stole the election from Trump. He said he viewed Nancy Pelosi as the biggest of the liars.
DePape’s voice shows his eagerness to relay what happened in detail, and he gets emotional while talking about some of his unsubstantiated pro-Trump conspiracy theories.
The tone was light and friendly.
Here is an excerpt of the back-and-forth between DePape told the detective. The dialogue is edited for clarity and length.
