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CNN
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A man accused of attacking the husband of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi filed a second not guilty plea Wednesday, waiving his right to a speedy trial.
David DePap, who is charged with a series of crimes including assault and attempted murder, has filed a plea in San Francisco Superior Court.
Appearing before Judge Teresa Caffese, DePape, when asked in court if he would waive his right to a speedy trial, said “yes” and said one word. He plans to return to the San Francisco Superior Court in February, when a trial date is set.
In California, it is customary for a second arraignment to a felony charge after a preliminary hearing in which the defendant is held to answer all charges. DePape had pleaded not guilty in his first court appearance in early November shortly after his arrest.
DePape, who has pleaded not guilty to a series of federal charges, broke into Pelosi’s home in October and attacked Paul Pelosi with a hammer, according to court documents.
He told federal agents he was looking for Nancy Pelosi and said he planned to kidnap the Speaker of the House and break “her kneecap” if she lied, according to an affidavit.CNN previously reported that Depapu yelled, “Where’s Nancy?” when he entered the house.
According to court filings, DePap told officers and medical personnel at the scene that he was fed up with “high level lies” from Washington, D.C., and that he “came here to have a little talk with his wife.” “I really didn’t want to hurt him, but this was a suicidal act. Even if it costs me my life, I’m not going to stand here and do nothing.”
After the attack, Paul Pelosi underwent surgery “to repair a fractured skull and serious injuries to his right arm and hand,” Speaker spokesman Drew Hamill said in a statement at the time.
Depp also planned to target President Joe Biden’s son Hunter, California Governor Gavin Newsom, and actor Tom Hanks.
San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins said in a statement following Wednesday’s arraignment that DePape “will be indicted to the fullest extent of the law and held accountable for his heinous crimes.”
Public defender Adam Lipson declined to comment after Wednesday’s expedited procedural hearing.One of Pelosis’ daughters, Christine Pelosi, was present at the hearing.
This story has been updated with additional information and responses.
